Commanders’ Bold Moves in Free Agency: A Game-Changer for 2026
The Washington Commanders are making waves in free agency, aiming to turn around last season’s disappointing 5-12 record. General Manager Adam Peters didn’t just dip a toe in the market; he dove in headfirst, with a standout move being the signing of edge rusher Odafe Oweh to a hefty 4-year, $100 million contract. The team is banking on seasoned veterans to bolster Jayden Daniels’ championship ambitions.
Odafe Oweh: The Game-Changer
Washington’s investment in Oweh is a calculated gamble. Fresh off a stellar season with an 81.0 PFF pass-rush grade, Oweh is more than just a flash in the pan.
His three-sack performance against the Patriots in the playoffs silenced many critics, showing that his athletic prowess is now matched by consistency. He doesn’t need to be Myles Garrett; double-digit sacks and disrupting quarterbacks will suffice to transform the defense.
This move scores an A.
Revamping the Secondary: Robertson and Cross
Amik Robertson’s 2-year, $16 million deal is a strategic upgrade. While his 48.0 coverage grade isn’t eye-catching, his gritty playstyle and “ball-hawk” mentality are exactly what the Commanders need.
He’s a significant step up from Marshon Lattimore. This earns a B-minus.
The real gem could be Nick Cross. At 24, with 266 tackles over the last two seasons, Cross is a versatile addition to the defense.
Defensive Coordinator Daronte Jones plans to utilize him as a dynamic blitzer. At $14 million for two years, Cross is a young talent with Pro Bowl potential.
This move gets an A-.
Boosting the Front Seven: Settle, Chenal, and White
Addressing their defensive softness, Washington signed Leo Chenal to a 3-year, $24.75 million contract. Known for his run-stopping prowess, Chenal fills the gap left by Bobby Wagner, adding much-needed strength to the front seven.
Tim Settle also returns with a $25.5 million deal, bringing 60 pressures from the past two seasons. This strategic move earns an A.
On the offensive side, Rachaad White joins for a bargain $2 million. With an impressive 87.2 rushing grade, White’s versatility complements Jayden Daniels, creating a dynamic backfield duo. This could be the steal of the 2026 cycle, warranting an A.
Looking Ahead: Playoff Aspirations
The Commanders are done with “moral victories.” By securing Odafe Oweh and re-signing Marcus Mariota on a 1-year, $7 million deal, they’ve crafted a roster with both high potential and stability.
The defense is now a perfect fit for Daronte Jones’ aggressive, blitz-heavy style. If Oweh and K’Lavon Chaisson, who notched 74 pressures last year, can consistently pressure quarterbacks, Washington isn’t just eyeing the playoffs-they’re serious contenders for the NFC East title.
The next step is the draft, where finding a true WR1 could complete the puzzle.