The Washington Commanders have made significant moves during the offseason, focusing on enhancing their roster with key acquisitions and resignations that set the stage for a competitive upcoming NFL season. With an eye on building around the promising quarterback Jayden Daniels, general manager Adam Peters has emphasized a mix of size and versatility across both the offensive and defensive lines.
After a noteworthy run last season, the Commanders began their offseason by retaining a solid foundation of players while bringing in fresh talent. This included the recent signing of offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil, who is expected to be pivotal in providing protection for Daniels as he develops into a potential franchise quarterback. Tunsil’s reputation as an elite left tackle precedes him, and teammates are excited about the impact he can make: “We definitely got our security guard on the left side. He’s the real deal… Laremy’s a great dude,” said wide receiver Noah Brown, who recently re-signed with the team under a one-year deal worth $4.5 million after recovering from a season-ending kidney injury.
Tunsil, acquired from the Houston Texans, adds to what Peters hopes will be a fortified offensive line, a reaction to the team’s disappointment with its performance in the previous season. The Commanders also added Foster Sarell, a tackle with valuable experience who can provide depth behind starters.
On the defensive side, the Commanders made headlines with the acquisition of cornerback Marshon Lattimore, bringing in the veteran from the New Orleans Saints. Although Lattimore's injury history raised eyebrows, his competitive nature and Pro Bowl pedigree have made him a welcome addition. “That’s my dog,” Harris said of Lattimore. “That’s my guy. Definitely super excited to reconnect with him. Obviously, enough can't be said about [Lattimore]. He’s a super competitor. The guy’s been doing it at a high level for so long,” emphasized Will Harris, another recent signing.
Not only did the team bolster its secondary, but it also made a big splash by acquiring defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw, signing him to a three-year deal valued at up to $45 million. Kinlaw's size (6-foot-5, 319 pounds) and track record make him a worthwhile gamble, though reactions from analysts have been mixed. Several experts have critiqued the deal as an overpay given Kinlaw’s inconsistent past performances. However, the Commanders anticipate that he can revert to his disruptive self, especially given coach Dan Quinn's history of utilizing imposing players effectively in his scheme. “The Commanders are betting they can maximize his size and pass-rush strengths,” noted a team analyst.
With the transition to a more aggressive team mindset under Peters, the Commanders are not just addressing individual positional needs but creating a stronger overall team dynamic. The front office has clearly intent on building a roster capable of contending in the NFC East, especially in the wake of the Philadelphia Eagles' recent Super Bowl victory, which underscores the need for heft and skill in all positions.
Analyzing their roster moves, it is evident that Peters has prioritized adding big bodies who can utilize their size effectively on the field. Alongside Kinlaw, the Commanders brought in other large additions including edge rusher Deatrich Wise Jr. and tackle Eddie Goldman to further strengthen their front. Similarly, they secured cornerbacks Jonathan Jones and Noah Igbinoghene while retaining linebacker Nick Bellore and tight end Zach Ertz, indicating a commitment to creating depth.
As the offseason progresses toward the draft, the landscape is anything but settled. The Commanders, keen to maximize their draft capital, may leverage their established base for further trades to improve their offerings. According to analysts, while Washington has used some draft capital through trades, the focus remains on maximizing production from upcoming picks.
The team’s current strategy reflects an understanding of the pressing need to win now. The shift in focus comes after the eye-catching performances by Daniels last season, where he showcased his potential as a starting quarterback. “The biggest thing is just the connection,” remarked wide receiver Olamide Zaccheaus during a recent interview, highlighting the importance of chemistry in the success of the team. “That was one thing that [we] prided ourselves on doing is just being able to connect as quickly as possible.”
Veterans on the roster are echoing the sentiment. As new members integrate into the team’s culture, they have time to establish solid relationships and ensure all units click ahead of a promising next season. Commanders fans are cautiously optimistic, hopeful that these offseason moves will culminate in a more competitive and successful team on the gridiron.
This offseason exemplifies a critical turning point for the Commanders, the moves indicate a growing belief in the potential for their roster alongside their aspirations to be playoff contenders. Commanders' fans, watching the changes unfold, have plenty to be excited about heading into the 2025 season.
With so many changes already unfolding and the draft around the corner, one thing is clear: excitement is building in Washington as the Commanders prepare for what promises to be a thrilling season.
