Commanders signed Odafe Oweh
Adam Peters knew what the biggest priority was this offseason. He needed to find more dynamism coming off the defensive edge. Just a few short hours into the legal tampering window, the Washington Commanders made a massive splash that had the entire NFL sitting up and taking notice.
Odafe Oweh signed a four-year, $100 million deal with $68 million guaranteed. The 2021 first-round pick came of age after being traded to the Los Angeles Chargers just before last season's deadline. He gained 10.5 sacks and was a relentless force coming off the edge. His three-sack outing in the playoffs only added more dollars to his demands.
Oweh has the size, length, and burst the Commanders have craved. He'll need to respond positively to being a focal point rather than a rotational piece, but the signs are immensely encouraging.
- Signing Grade: A
There will be lofty expectations on Oweh's shoulders. If he can deliver, this could change everything for the Commanders.
Commanders signed Tim Settle
With defensive coordinator Daronte Jones projected to switch the Commanders to a 3-4 base scheme next season, more was needed in the trenches. Daron Payne is sticking around without a new deal, and Javon Kinlaw's contract is hard to get off. Even so, another capable performer was required.
The Commanders have someone in mind, and it was a popular move. Tim Settle Jr. is back with the team that drafted him. But this reunion is not just sentimental. It can also significantly impact their ability to stop the run in 2026.
Settle is another large body capable of eating space and absorbing double teams. He can operate at the nose tackle position or as a 3-4 defensive end, depending on what Jones has planned. Considering the size of Payne and Kinlaw, this could be a difficult proposition to overcome.
- Signing Grade: A
This will breathe new life into Washington's defensive front. Expect Settle to regain his fan-favorite status in no time.
Commanders signed Leo Chenal
Nobody expected the Washington Commanders to stand pat at the linebacker position this offseason. They might not be done just yet, but signing Leo Chenal was a good place to start.
Chenal signed a three-year deal worth up to $24.75 million. This is nothing more than the player deserved after catching the eye considerably during his stint with the Kansas City Chiefs. Even though it was more on a rotational basis than anything else, he still received rave reviews whenever reps came his way.
One only has to look at how dismayed Chiefs fans were by Chenal's departure to see how highly they regarded him. He's fast, instinctive, and dynamic. He's a force against the run, can be a massive asset on blitzes, and has the athleticism to hold his own in coverage. He also looks more than ready for increased responsibilities.
- Signing Grade: A+
Adam Peters has made many signings so far. Acquiring Chenal could be the best.