Big changes were always coming to the Washington Commanders this offseason. General manager Adam Peters had no choice after such a poor campaign, but this was always going to come with some collateral damage along the way.
And just when it looked like one castoff might not get an opportunity to shine elsewhere, he was given a lifeline almost nobody expected.
Jalyn Holmes was part of the squad last season, earning another one-year deal after two sacks in 2024. He featured in 10 games, even starting five. This was largely due to the decimation of Washington's roster by injuries, but the defensive lineman did flash some qualities en route to 21 tackles, five tackles for loss, and one quarterback hit.
Jalyn Holmes finally gets another shot months after Commanders departure
Unfortunately for the player, this was not enough for a reprieve this spring. Holmes wasn't brought back, and another opportunity wasn't immediately forthcoming.
After a long wait, it's now arrived.
According to ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler, the Tennessee Titans have signed Holmes to a one-year deal. It's a reunion between the player and Robert Saleh, his former head coach with the New York Jets. This should ensure a smooth transition, but arriving at this stage makes it an uphill climb to force his way onto the 53-man roster.
The Titans are looking to regain respectability after falling off over the last couple of seasons. There was always going to be a transitional period after Mike Vrabel's long association as head coach of the franchise ended. They showed signs of life at times last season, and the introduction of Saleh should turn things up another notch.
The coach has made a point of surrounding himself with players he trusts throughout the offseason. Holmes now fits into that category.
As for the Commanders? They are expected to move into a 3-4 base defensive front under new coordinator Daronte Jones. Daron Payne, Javon Kinlaw, and Tim Settle Jr. will lead the charge. Head coach Dan Quinn is also expecting a breakout campaign from Johnny Newton, so this could be a formidable foursome if everyone meets expectations and stays clear of injuries.
That's of no importance to Holmes now. His focus has turned to cementing his place with the Titans, which might be his last chance to make an NFL roster.
What comes next is down to Holmes. It's probably the last chance saloon for the 2018 fourth-round pick out of Ohio State. He must deliver accordingly.
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