As the NFL's free agency frenzy settled in 2025, several notable player transactions have caught the attention of fans, particularly surrounding the Washington Commanders and the Buffalo Bills. The past season's roster reshaping sparked significant moves, ushering in new opportunities for players who were previously central to Washington’s roster.
Darrick Forrest, a safety who previously showcased promise, left the Commanders to join the Buffalo Bills, signing a one-year deal. A two-year journey from being a highly-touted talent to a player without a second contract in Washington marks the challenges Forrest faced. Injuries plagued his 2023 season, cutting his campaign short after just five games. Forrest had hoped for a breakout alongside teammate Kamren Curl, who later departed for the Los Angeles Rams, further complicating Forrest's position.
In reflecting on Forrest's tenure, it's clear that the shift in defensive schematics under a new regime at Washington relegated him to an afterthought. He appears to view this transition as a chance for redemption with the Bills, where he could thrive under a system better suited to his strengths. The Bills are counting on Forrest to assume a significant role, to stabilize their secondary and contribute effectively. The outcome of this engagement remains to be seen, but his fresh start in Buffalo suggests optimism. Departure grade: B-.
Forrest isn’t the only player departing from the Commanders this offseason. Jonathan Allen, a key defensive tackle, found himself looking for a new home after requests for a trade and indicators that the on-field performance no longer matched his financial investment—an essential factor fueling the Commander’s decision to release him just before the legal tampering window opened. Allen, who once ranked as a first-round pick out of Alabama, signed a lucrative three-year, $51 million deal—with $31.25 million guaranteed—with the Minnesota Vikings.
The Commanders attempted to incorporate Allen into trade discussions with other teams, notably in potential packages targeting wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr., but faced setbacks. Ultimately, the decision to release him—a tactful move—granted Allen the chance to embrace the free agency market, strategically letting him align with a team that intends to compete for a championship in 2025.
Thus far, the Vikings have positioned themselves as a legitimate contender, and Allen's presence could bolster their defensive rankings, especially when factoring in potential postseason matchups with the Commanders. Such outcomes could shape narratives for years to come. Departure grade: A.
As the offseason progresses, the Commanders have not merely shifted players but have enhanced their roster through transactions, looking to reclaim their competitive edge established during their 2024 NFC Championship run. They made significant moves, acquiring notable talent in Deebo Samuel Sr. and left tackle Laremy Tunsil as part of an aggressive free agency strategy. The Commander’s general manager, Adam Peters, is adamant about shaping the roster with pragmatism—balancing sentiment with hard-nosed evaluations to optimize overall performance.
The addition of Tunsil marked a monumental upgrade for Washington’s offensive line amid concerns about performing at a championship caliber. His pedigree speaks volumes, providing a protective presence on the blind side for emerging quarterback Jayden Daniels. To make room for such a talent, however, the team deemed several key players like Cornelius Lucas surplus to requirements, resulting in his signing with the Cleveland Browns on a two-year deal, which could lead to increased playing opportunities for him.
Washington’s decisions also indicate faith in developing players, such as Mykal Walker—a linebacker who secured a one-year agreement with the Arizona Cardinals and largely contributed from the margins on special teams. Even more evident, former Commanders cornerback Benjamin St-Juste is returning to the league with a one-year deal from the Chargers, likely seen as a reclamation project after failed expectations in D.C.
As for Dyami Brown, his late-season heroics provided the spark necessary for a move to Jacksonville Jaguars on a one-year, $10 million deal, with incentives potentially raising it to $12 million. This outcome was a demonstration of a market now embracing his potential despite his past inconsistencies. The transition also reflects the Commanders’ priorities toward solidifying their core while enabling new talents to emerge from promising rosters.
Moreover, the Commanders have taken budgetary strategies seriously, opting not to match the significant compensation necessitated by their previous players. Signing Will Harris at a fraction of the cost of Jeremy Chinn, who left for the Raiders on a two-year deal, is part of the broader team-building philosophy under Peters’ watch. Such choices signal urgency without sacrificing long-term vision—not an easy balance to achieve in a frenzied market.
Amidst these changes, the Bills have significantly revamped their roster, welcoming not just Forrest but pass rusher Joey Bosa from the Los Angeles Chargers, receiver Josh Palmer, and several others in strategic enhancements aimed at providing fresh vigor for their 2025 campaign. This acquisition spree addresses both offensive and defensive necessities, harbinging hopes for renewed playoff fortune.
In summary, the NFL's 2025 free agency period has witnessed a notable turnover among the Commanders, with the exit of key talents including Forrest and Allen reshaping their roster dynamics. As both players set their sights on new beginnings, teams like the Bills and Vikings illustrate that fresh starts can lead to significant success.
