Daronte Jones needs more high-impact players for his defensive revolution. The Washington Commanders have plenty of money to throw around in free agency, so general manager Adam Peters needs to act swiftly and decisively to give his new coordinator a chance to hit the ground running.
And there was one notable development across the league that will no doubt provoke discussion among those in power in Washington.
The Chicago Bears were busy on Thursday. First, they shipped wide receiver D.J. Moore to the Buffalo Bills in a blockbuster deal. Then, general manager Ryan Poles released starting linebacker Tremaine Edmunds when no willing trade suitor came forward.
This always seemed inevitable. Edmunds is highly productive, but most believe his paycheck no longer matches his performance. A parting of the ways seemed likely from a long way out, but there should be a queue of suitors looking to secure his services on the open market.
Commanders should kick the tires on Tremaine Edmunds after inevitable Bears release
Whether the Commanders are one of them remains to be seen. But NFL analyst Mark Bullock, previously of The Athletic and The Washington Post, thought this would be an intriguing possibility for Jones' defense if they are in the market for a veteran at the defensive second level.
"Not sure if the Commanders are going to be targeting a high-profile ILB, but I’d have interest in [Tremaine] Edmunds if they’re in that market."
Edmunds' credentials need no introduction. He's a first-round pick who's gone over 100 tackles in each of his eight NFL seasons. He's a two-time Pro Bowler and an exceptional force against the run. If the Commanders are looking for a replacement to fill the expected void left by Bobby Wagner, this wouldn't be a bad option at all if the money works.
However, there are also concerns. Edmunds struggled in coverage last season, which could be a problem in Jones' projected system. He's a downhill, reactive player. That's his biggest strength, but the Commanders already have one of those in Frankie Luvu.
Perhaps the Commanders will be thinking bigger with someone like Devin Lloyd. Perhaps they'll be targeting Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles at No. 7 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, though there is no guarantee he'll still be around after a scintillating display of athletic dominance at the NFL Scouting Combine. Others will also be on the shortlist, but more is undoubtedly needed.
Edmunds is a good player with proven production in the highest stakes. And if Jones gives this move his seal of approval, don't be surprised if Washington makes a bid.