The Washington Commanders have money to throw around in free agency. General manager Adam Peters is under increasing pressure to find the upgrades needed to get things back on track, but they must be the right recruits who fit the franchise's way of thinking.
That bears greater significance when one considers that the Commanders are heading into the 2026 offseason with two new coordinators.
Daronte Jones will be taking over the defense, which should be more creative and aggressive if the personnel improves. The same goes for David Blough's offense, which could also use some enhancements to make sure head coach Dan Quinn's gamble pays off handsomely.
Much of the speculation currently centers on a potential move for Brandon Aiyuk after he is inevitably released by the San Francisco 49ers. Jayden Daniels is publicly lobbying for the move, but whether Peters will ignore the obvious red flags remains to be seen.
Jay Gruden believes Commanders should take a strong look at Alec Pierce in free agency
Former Washington head coach Jay Gruden believes there is another possibility the Commanders would be wise to consider. During an appearance on 106.7 The Fan, he was gushing in his praise of Alec Pierce, who could also possibly enter free agency this spring if the Indianapolis Colts cannot reach a financial compromise with the ascending wideout.
"I love Alec Pierce. He's one of my favorites. I think he's going to be a steal for somebody. I think he's a big-time player. He's going to get better and better. He's still young. He can run."Jay Gruden via 106.7 The Fan
Former Washington head coach Jay Gruden RAVES about free agent WR Alec Pierce. Do you want him for the Commanders? pic.twitter.com/z0PBfNxRbx
— 106.7 The Fan (@1067theFan) February 9, 2026
Pierce's rookie contract is up, and his breakout campaign in 2025 couldn't have come at a better time. He emerged as one of the league's best deep threats, gaining more than 1,000 receiving yards on just 47 catches at a 21.3 yards per reception average. Teams pay a premium for this sort of explosive production, and Indianapolis may not want to lose him.
According to Spotrac, Pierce is expected to get a four-year, $80.99 million deal, averaging $20.24 million per season. That price could go even higher if a bidding war for his services breaks out in the open market. The Commanders could absorb this financial figure, and considering he'll be 26 when the 2026 campaign starts, this represents an investment in the future.
Adding someone like Pierce could be the key to igniting quarterback Jayden Daniels' deep-ball prowess. However, the Colts may not let things get that far. They are expected to make him an offer to retain his services, leaving everyone else out of luck.
Whether it's Pierce or someone else, the Commanders need more in their wideout room. It'll be fascinating to see what direction Peters takes to rectify this glaring issue and make things easier for his franchise signal-caller.