Releasing starting center Tyler Biadasz came with questions and added scrutiny before free agency. General manager Adam Peters' next move is crucial, and one NFL insider believes the Washington Commanders could have something massive up their sleeve.
Biadasz was a dependable pro and beloved in the locker room. He found work quickly as expected, penning a three-year, $30 million deal with the Los Angeles Chargers. The Commanders extended Nick Allegretti ahead of time, but trusting him to fill the void is incredibly risky.
But they might be thinking a whole lot bigger.
NFL insider reveals Commanders could swing for the fences with Tyler Linderbaum bid
However, a recent report from Jordan Schultz, citing conversations with sources across the league, revealed that the Commanders might be preparing a bombshell splash for Tyler Linderbaum if he doesn't reach an agreement with the Baltimore Ravens beforehand.
"Should he not re-sign with the Ravens, there is a belief among teams that the Commanders will heavily pursue C Tyler Linderbaum in free agency, per multiple sources. Washington recently released their starting center Tyler Biadasz."
This would be a staggering development. The Commanders have cash to spend in free agency, and Linderbaum is easily the most gifted center set to hit the market. The former Iowa star is also expected to get paid handsomely, with several reporters tipping the lineman to reset the market by a considerable margin.
That's a possible issue for the Commanders if Schultz's report is accurate.
Peters needs to reset the left tackle market for Laremy Tunsil at some stage this offseason, which will probably come in the $30 million per year range. They have a substantial amount already tied to starting right guard Sam Cosmi. Spending $20 million per year or more on Linderbaum is another costly (albeit quality) offensive line acquisition.
The Commanders are going to swing for the fences this offseason. Peters believes this is the time to strike, and there is pressure on Washington to bounce back after a poor showing in 2025. Linderbaum won't solve every problem, but he would be an elite-level performer to form a long-term partnership with quarterback Jayden Daniels.
There are also ways to structure the contract so it doesn't jeopardize Washington's chances of bolstering other areas this offseason. Schultz is better connected than most league insiders, so this revelation carries weight. Whether the Commanders are willing to pay what it might cost to get Linderbaum on board when push comes to shove is another matter.
Fans are demanding decisive action. And if the Commanders are keying in on Linderbaum, releasing Biadasz makes a lot more sense in the grand scheme of things.
Buckle up.