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Ranking the 10 best Commanders moves from a quietly vital offseason

It's been an eventful offseason as expected.
Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters (Kirby Lee-Imagn Images)
Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters (Kirby Lee-Imagn Images) | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
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8. Commanders signed Leo Chenal

The Washington Commanders believe linebacker Leo Chenal has the athletic attributes to emerge as a strong contributor. He was used as a rotational piece and special-teams ace with the Kansas City Chiefs, performing extremely well whenever his number was called. Now, it's time to branch out.

Chenal fits the mold of what the Commanders were looking for this offseason. He's fast, physical, explosive, and makes plays. While there is competition for playing time in the linebacker room, the former Wisconsin standout should be a core part of whatever success comes Washington's way on the defensive side of the football.

And at 25, Chenal's best years are firmly ahead of him.

7. Commanders drafted Antonio Williams

There are concerns around the wide receiver options behind Terry McLaurin. Speculation linking the Commanders to Brandon Aiyuk and Stefon Diggs is fizzling out, so a situation could emerge in which Adam Peters goes with what he has right now.

This provides a significant opportunity for Antonio Williams to make his presence felt immediately. The third-round pick can generate separation effortlessly and is a threat after the catch. Things didn't go according to plan in his final year at Clemson, but it already looks as if the Commanders have found some real value with the No. 71 pick.

Williams has the tools to be an important piece of the puzzle right out of the gate. Fans should expect big things.

6. Commanders signed Rachaad White

David Blough tipped the Commanders' hand by declaring his desire for a running back revamp. Adam Peters duly delivered, and free-agent signing Rachaad White wasted no time in staking a strong claim for a prominent role when the 2026 season begins.

White looks dynamic. He's got a previous connection to Jayden Daniels from their time together at Arizona State, and he can make things happen with the football in his hands. Whether it's carrying the ball or being an asset in the passing game, the veteran has dual-threat promise that Blough can utilize.

If White continues this positive momentum, he'll be a focal point for the Commanders and a bargain at $2 million.

5. Commanders signed Odafe Oweh

Adding to the edge-rushing room was imperative this offseason. Thankfully, Adam Peters agreed, prioritizing the unit over all others during a frantic offseason on the recruiting front.

Odafe Oweh was the marquee acquisition. He was among the best free agents on the market, and the Commanders had to splash the cash to get him on board. The four-year, $96 million contract was immediately classed as an overpay, but if the Penn State product can spearhead better fortunes on the edge, nobody will be complaining about the money involved.

Oweh is long and fast, with an exceptional burst off the snap. If he can evolve his game to become a genuine three-down force, the Commanders will be in tremendous shape.

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