Commanders News: Sale urgency, Sam Howell, power rankings and Montez Sweat
By Dean Jones
Commanders eager to extend Montez Sweat
Having Montez Sweat and Chase Young going into the upcoming season both looking for new deals is asking for trouble. The Washington Commanders would have a serious financial problem on their hands if both performed well in 2023, which could result in one departing the ranks given how much cash is already committed to the defensive line.
Sweat has been a consistent performer and is available more often than not. If it was a straight choice right now between him and Young for a new deal, the former Mississippi State stud is the safer option.
When discussing the situation between Sweat and the Commanders, John Keim of ESPN stated that those in power wanted to get a deal done. However, the current ownership transition means everything is on hold until further notice.
"Washington would like to extend [Montez] Sweat, but those talks were long ago put on hold because of the ownership situation. Until Josh Harris' group are approved as the new owners, Washington and Sweat will have to wait. Washington has more than $84 million in 2024 cap space, but its top four defensive ends are all on expiring contracts. To get a deal that averages more than $20 million, Sweat will have to produce more than his career-best nine sacks this season. Plus, Chase Young also will be a free agent. "
- John Keim, ESPN
Sweat is being patient and hasn't let the contract situation impact his preparations for the 2023 campaign aside from skipping voluntary workouts. Ideally, the Commanders can reach an agreement before the season, because the price is only going to go up with exceptional numbers next time around.