Cornelius Lucas - Commanders OT
Cornelius Lucas got a one-year extension from the Washington Commanders when most thought he'd be made surplus to requirements. The veteran offensive tackle's place on the roster wasn't guaranteed. What followed is a testament to his resolve and ability to adjust.
Lucas not only cemented his place on the squad, but he earned enough confidence to share left tackle responsibilities with third-round rookie Brandon Coleman. This was a calculated risk by the coaching staff - one that's paid off handsomely.
The former undrafted free agent out of Kansas State is playing the best football of his career. Lucas has given up just one sack this season. His pass-blocking grade of 81.4 from Pro Football Focus ranks 13th out of 131 qualifying offensive tackles. His high-level consistency enabled Coleman to come along gradually for good measure.
He's not getting any younger, but Lucas' production is more than deserving of another one-year deal. This would keep continuity and give the Commanders a dependable veteran capable of holding down the fort whether reinforcements arrive or not.
Bobby Wagner - Commanders LB
The Commanders made plenty of quality signings throughout the offseason. Arguably none were more pivotal to the team's early success than Bobby Wagner.
Dan Quinn needed an accomplished leader capable of spearheading this culture shift. Wagner ticked every box and he's been worth every cent so far.
His on-field production remains superb despite being 34 years old. Wagner is a dominant force against the run and generates pressure well when opportunities arise. He's slowing down in coverage, but this isn't a great concern considering his overall body of work.
Wagner's leadership in the locker room is another huge positive. He's not the most vocal, preferring to lead by example and show younger players how to prepare effectively and adopt a winning mindset. When the Commanders were going through a slump, his decision to speak out and remind the locker room what got them this far provoked a positive response.
That typified the esteem in which Wagner is held in the locker room. If the former second-round pick wants to continue his first-ballot Pro Football Hall of Fame career, the Commanders should be willing to provide the second-level enforcer with another contract.