4 free agents the Commanders were wise to avoid in 2024
By Dean Jones
Which free agents were the Washington Commanders wise to avoid during a frantic early free-agency period around the league in 2024?
Adam Peters had some huge decisions to make during his first free agency as general manager. A roster overhaul seemed inevitable based on how things unfolded during Ron Rivera's four-year reign. It didn't take long for the new front-office leader to start implementing his ambitious plans with supreme conviction.
The Washington Commanders had the league's most salary-cap space available heading into Peters' first recruitment period. Instead of the lavish big-spending fans became used to under Dan Snyder, there was a more sensible approach this time around. Something that filled key needs without jeopardizing the long-term financial flexibility. This is the way football business is being done in DC from now on, which only raises expectations further about what's in store during an exciting era of change.
Of course, there was a temptation to strengthen with a marquee signing or two. Peters has held back so far, keeping the bigger picture in mind as he looks to build through the draft and supplement any remaining needs from the veteran pool.
With this in mind, here are four free agents the Commanders were wise to avoid in 2024.
Commanders were right to avoid Xavier McKinney
The Washington Commanders reportedly never offered Kamren Curl a new deal despite his fast rise into a starting role. Adam Peters didn't feel like the safety warranted the modest deal he received from the Los Angeles Rams. While disappointing, this is a testament to the business-first ethos of the team's new football operation under the general manager.
Finding a replacement was crucial despite the scope of further improvements from Percy Butler and Darrick Forrest. Xavier McKinney was one of the hottest free agents after a standout career with the New York Giants, eventually signing a four-year, $66 million deal to join the Green Bay Packers. This also included a $23 million signing bonus and $23 million guaranteed.
McKinney is a top-level performer, but the cost was too high. The Commanders settled on Jeremy Chinn in the hope his athletic attributes could be better utilized within Dan Quinn's defensive scheme. There's also the possibility of acquiring another dynamic backend presence from the college ranks to further solidify Washington's options.