Adam Peters made retaining those who contributed so much to the Washington Commanders' sensational 2024 campaign among his biggest priorities this offseason. But for some, this was the end of the road in D.C.
This is all part of the business. Peters is running the football operation with no sentiment attached. If the money doesn't work or the Commanders can find better alternatives, the second-year general manager won't hesitate to pull the trigger.
It's been a methodical approach to free agency for the Commanders. The team's two biggest splashes came on the trade market with wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. and left tackle Laremy Tunsil. Only one player — defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw — got a lofty long-term commitment from the veteran pool. And most perceived that as a massive overpay for someone who hasn't set the world alight in recent years.
Washington went on a fairytale run to the NFC Championship game last season. Most have been re-signed to one-year deals or slightly more. But some, including a few notable contributors who occupied prominent depth chart positions last time around, won't be coming along for the ride moving forward.
With this in mind, we graded the first nine Commanders roster departures of 2024 free agency.
Grading the first nine Commanders roster departures of 2025 free agency
Commanders lost Mykal Walker
- Position: Linebacker
- New Team: Arizona Cardinals (1-year deal)
Mykal Walker did well to make the 53-man roster last summer. The veteran linebacker came into the Washington Commanders with no guarantees whatsoever. He put his experience to good use, earning a rotational spot behind Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu at the defensive second level after rookie linebacker Jordan Magee's promising early momentum was derailed by injury.
Walker played just seven percent of the team's defensive snaps, making 21 tackles despite limited involvement. His primary influence came on special teams, where the former fourth-round pick became an essential part of Larry Izzo's strategy throughout the campaign.
Considering the presence of Jeremy Reaves and Nick Bellore spearheading this key discipline, the chances of Walker re-signing were slim. That proved to be the case after the Arizona Cardinals secured his services pretty quickly on a one-year deal.
- Departure grade: B+
Walker carved out a decent niche in Washington, but it was the right call to move in a different direction. This also indicates confidence that Magee can make a more significant impact in Year 2 of his professional career with better luck on the health front.