The Washington Commanders focused their attention on proven veterans slightly past their prime in free agency. This is the win-now approach adopted by general manager Adam Peters, who believes adding to the already-established culture with players capable of helping immediately was the correct course of action.
Expect this same trend to continue with the Commanders only having five picks in the 2025 NFL Draft after trading for wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. and left tackle Laremy Tunsil. The free-agent pool has diminished, but some intriguing options remain who'd jump at the chance to join this exciting project.
One NFL analyst thought Dan Quinn could set his sights on a familiar face to round off one critical position group.
Commanders projected to enter the race for veteran cornerback Stephon Gilmore
Kristopher Knox from The Bleacher Report thought the Commanders would benefit from having Stephon Gilmore in their cornerback room. He's still performing well despite not being at the elite standards of previous years. His connection to Quinn should ensure a smooth transition if Washington went in this direction.
"[Stephon] Gilmore can still play, and he carries fewer questions than other players left on the free-agent cornerback market. A team signing him might not be getting a Pro Bowl talent at this point in his career, but it would be getting a solid, starting-caliber perimeter defender. The Commanders should also have interest in Gilmore, even if corner isn't their most glaring need—Washington added Marshon Lattimore at last year's trade deadline. Gilmore played for Commanders head coach Dan Quinn in 2023 and could provide some much-needed depth for a team with Super Bowl aspirations."Kristopher Knox
The Commanders re-signed Noah Igbinoghene and acquired Jonathan Jones, who sought Gilmore's counsel about Quinn and got a glowing reference, in free agency. With Marshon Lattimore and Mike Sainristil firmly established, Washington needs one more dependable presence capable of generating reps on the rotation.
Going down the draft route will be considered depending on who falls into their lap. If the Commanders don't find the right prospect from the college ranks, that's when someone like Gilmore might be considered.
This is a great landing spot for Gilmore. It might be his final season before retirement. Playing for a contender and being a complementary piece rather than being tasked with significant responsibilities should be enough for one more year of solid production.
Quinn will know what Gilmore can or can't do these days. The same goes for defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr., who also worked closely with the former NFL Defensive Player of the Year during their time together on the Dallas Cowboys. If they end up recommending the South Carolina product, that might be enough for Peters to make a move.
Others will be considered, but this would likely happen after the draft rather than before. The Commanders would ideally like to get more picks with a trade down. If Peters accomplishes this mission, taking a cornerback to go along with the four they already have seems guaranteed.
Gilmore is in no rush. He'll bide his time and wait for the right opportunity to present itself. Whether that'll be in Washington or elsewhere is up for debate.
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