4 grossly underpaid Washington Commanders players in 2024

The Commanders are getting some bang for their buck with these players.
K.J. Henry
K.J. Henry / Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
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Frankie Luvu - Commanders LB

  • 2024 salary-cap hit: $3.86 million

After thriving over the last two seasons, the Carolina Panthers made a concerted effort to keep linebacker Frankie Luvu around. However, the allure of linking up with Dan Quinn and being utilized within his expansive defensive scheme tipped the scales.

Luvu opted to turn down Carolina in favor of the Washington Commanders. Of all the signings made by general manager Adam Peters throughout a frantic offseason, this could be the most impactful when push comes to shove.

The former undrafted free agent out of Washington State rose from a special teams threat to a high-quality starting option. He's explosive, can rush the passer, and boasts the instincts needed to identify run plays developing quickly. Luvu is a ferocious hitter and an inspirational figure others can follow for good measure.

This could be a sensational pickup by the Commanders. Couple this with the signing of All-Pro linebacker Bobby Wagner, and this position group has gone from a weak link to an area of significant strength in one offseason.

Just why Ron Rivera ignored the defensive second level so much is anyone's guess. Peters and Quinn weren't going to make the same mistake - something that should give Washington's defense an extra level of firepower and assurance when competitive action resumes once again.

Luvu is counting $3.86 million against the Commanders' salary cap during his first season with the franchise. This has a lot to do with how the contract is structured more than anything else. After the 2024 campaign, his money will skyrocket.

The second-level enforcer's cap hits over the final two years of his deal stand at $11.24 million and $11.29 million. This is more in keeping with his talent level, but the Commanders will be hoping to get plenty of bang for their buck from Luvu as he looks to hit the ground running in a different environment.

If Luvu meets expectations, the Commanders have a bona fide superstar on their hands.

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