5 free-agent cornerbacks the Commanders must consider immediately

Commanders must consider Xavien Howard

Xavien Howard is arguably the best performer on the veteran free-agent cornerback market right now. The former second-round selection was an All-Pro coverage presence at the peak of his powers. Some unfortunate injuries dented his trajectory and the Miami Dolphins made him an expected salary-cap casualty this offseason.

Howard is raring to go and waiting for another opportunity. It might take him a little time to get in true football shape after featuring in just 13 games last season. But if the player proves his health, there should be interest from cornerback-needy franchises around the league.

The Washington Commanders are one of those based on their output over the first two games of 2024. Howard might be waiting around for a contender, but general manager Adam Petters has enough spare resources to offer the Baylor product a better financial package than most.

Howard would provide the Commanders with something in short supply; proven production against the league's best wide receivers. However, the injury red flags cannot be overlooked and need significant examination from Washington's medical staff if the defensive back came into the conversation.

Commanders must consider Patrick Peterson

The Commanders made a concerted effort to remove underperforming veterans and deploy a mini-youth movement led by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels this offseason. That's commendable and should put this organization in a better position to thrive in the coming years. But if those in power believe there's an opportunity to enter the postseason picture right out of the gate under head coach Dan Quinn, signing some experience is crucial.

Patrick Peterson has more of that than most. He's not the All-Pro-caliber cornerback of previous years, but his performances for the Pittsburgh Steelers last time around indicate he could still be of use in some capacity.

Asking Peterson to be an every-down starter at this late stage of his career is pushing things. However, he'd be an upgrade on the rotation and would also provide younger cornerbacks with an outstanding mentorship presence to lean on throughout the campaign.

Peterson has the size and length normally associated with defensive backs within Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr.'s schematic concepts. He's lost some explosiveness that made him a shutdown presence once upon a time. That might be the one thing that puts the Commanders off from making a move despite the obvious benefits attached.