The Washington Commanders have a long list of tough decisions to make this offseason - but this one was easy.
Tress Way isn’t just a punter for Washington. He’s a symbol of consistency in an organization that’s seen just about everything over the past decade - coaching changes, front office overhauls, two rebrands, and a seismic shift in ownership. Through it all, Way has been a steady hand (or foot), and on Tuesday, the Commanders made sure that hand’s not going anywhere just yet.
The team announced a new one-year contract for the three-time Pro Bowl punter, locking in one of their most respected and reliable veterans for a 13th season. And let’s be clear - this wasn’t just a sentimental move. Way continues to play at a high level, and in a year where Washington struggled in multiple phases, he remained one of the few bright spots.
Still Booming at 35
Way’s numbers last season speak for themselves. Over half - 51.8% - of his punts landed inside the opponent’s 20-yard line, his best mark since 2018.
That kind of precision isn’t just helpful, it’s game-changing for a team that often found itself losing the field position battle. Add in an average of 47.3 yards per punt - his best since 2022 - and it’s clear the leg is still live.
That kind of production, especially from a player pushing 36, is rare. And it’s even more valuable when you consider the leadership and locker room presence Way brings.
He’s the longest-tenured player on the roster by a wide margin, and his influence isn’t lost on teammates or coaches. You don’t last 12 years in one city - especially in a league as cutthroat as the NFL - without being elite at your job and elite in your professionalism.
A Milestone in Sight
If Way plays a full 17-game slate in 2026, he’ll move into third place on the franchise’s all-time list for regular-season games played, trailing only Washington legends Darrell Green and Monte Coleman. That’s rarefied air - especially for a punter. But that’s the kind of legacy Way is building: not just as a specialist, but as a foundational part of the franchise.
He’s made it clear he didn’t want to go anywhere else. Washington gave him his first shot in the league, and he’s repaid that faith with over a decade of high-level play. This new deal is more than just a contract - it’s a recognition of what he’s meant to the team, and what he still brings to the table.
A Smart Start to a Busy Offseason
New general manager Adam Peters has his hands full. The Commanders are in need of a serious defensive rebuild, and there’s plenty of work to do on the offensive side as well - particularly when it comes to giving young quarterback Jayden Daniels more help.
But re-signing Way was the kind of move that didn’t need much deliberation. It was the smart call, the right call, and an easy win for a front office that’s about to enter a critical offseason.
In a league where punters often go unnoticed, Tress Way has become a quiet cornerstone. He’s weathered the storms, led by example, and delivered when called upon. And now, he gets at least one more year to keep doing what he does best - flipping fields, leading with class, and representing Washington with pride.
There’s a lot of uncertainty surrounding the Commanders heading into 2026. But one thing’s for sure: the punter position is in very good hands - or feet - with Tress Way.