RSS Commanders Team Notes

[Washington Commanders]

Washington Commanders Free Agency: Tress Way extended for another year

Dan Quinn introduced new DC Daronte Jones and new OC David Blough earlier today. Special teams coordinator Larry Izzo got some attention today too. His All-Pro/Pro Bowl punters Tress Way has been extended for another year!

Way is the longest-tenured player on the team and has been getting signed to one-year extensions to take advantage of the 4-year qualifying contract that went into effect with the 2020 NFL CBA and is explained here. He will only count for $1.65 million against the cap, while earning close to $3 million.

TRESS IS BACK! pic.twitter.com/Wdr6d02YAs

— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) February 10, 2026

All smiles for Year 13 pic.twitter.com/FyY03tyQ8R

— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) February 11, 2026

Honored to be back:​

Tress Way sticking around. What else would you expect? pic.twitter.com/KrHoEzrimw

— Ben Standig (@BenStandig) February 10, 2026

Tress Way addressing the media. Said it means a lot that the team wants him back and to contribute. “I feel so honored that I’m wanted by these guys.”

— Zach Selby (@ZachSelbyWC) February 10, 2026

Can’t imagine playing for another team:​

Way on him imagining playing for another team: I can’t and I don’t want to

— Zach Selby (@ZachSelbyWC) February 10, 2026

Fan support:​

Way said the Commanders’ fans have made his experience with the team “so special”

— Zach Selby (@ZachSelbyWC) February 10, 2026

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/washingto...ee-agency-tress-way-extended-for-another-year

 

[Washington Commanders]

Can Skyler Bell be More Than a Slot Receiver for the Commanders?

Skyler Bell, WR
School: UConn| Conference: Independent
College Experience: Redshirt Senior | Age: 23
Height / Weight: 5’11” / 187 lbs
Projected Draft Status: 3rd-4th Round
Player Comparison: Jayden Reed

College Statistics​

Receiving	Rushing	Scrimmage
Season	Team	Conf	Class	Pos	G	Rec	Yds	Y/R	TD	Y/G	Att	Yds	Y/A	TD	Y/G	Plays	Yds	Avg	TD	Awards
2021*	Wisconsin	Big Ten	FR	WR	1	1	15	15.0	0	15.0	0	0	0	0.0	1	15	15.0	0
2022*	Wisconsin	Big Ten	FR	WR	13	30	444	14.8	5	34.2	13	160	12.3	0	12.3	43	604	14.0	5
2023*	Wisconsin	Big Ten	SO	WR	12	38	296	7.8	1	24.7	0	0	0	0.0	38	296	7.8	1
2024*	Connecticut	Ind	JR	WR	13	50	860	17.2	5	66.2	0	4	0	0.3	50	864	17.3	5
2025*	Connecticut	Ind	SR	WR	13	101	1278	12.7	13	98.3	2	-2	-1.0	0	-0.2	103	1276	12.4	13	AA
Career	52	220	2893	13.2	24	55.6	15	162	10.8	0	3.1	235	3055	13.0	24
Connecticut (2 Yrs)	26	151	2138	14.2	18	82.2	2	2	1.0	0	0.1	153	2140	14.0	18
Wisconsin (3 Yrs)	26	69	755	10.9	6	29.0	13	160	12.3	0	6.2	82	915	11.2	6

Receiving & Rushing Table

Provided by CFB at Sports Reference: View Original Table
Generated 1/27/2026.

Player Overview​

Bronx-native Skyler Bell played wide receiver and kick returner for Taft School in Watertown, Connecticut. Although he produced respectable numbers as a junior, his senior season was cancelled because of the Covid-19 pandemic. This led to Bell being a three-star recruit with offers from Rutgers, Virginia Tech, Iowa, West Virginia, and where he ultimately decided to go, Wisconsin. After redshirting in 2021, Bell was second in receptions in 2022 and 2023 for the Badgers. Bell transferred closer to home and played at UConn where he became the Huskies’ feature receiver. He led the team in yards and touchdowns in both 2024 and 2025. After a final season where he was third in receptions, second in receiving yards, and tied for third in receiving touchdowns in college football, Bell became UConn’s first consensus All-American.

Strengths​

• Sudden in and out of his breaks when running routes
• Recognizes coverages and adjusts routes accordingly
• Strong at the catch point, easily securing catches with his 10” hands
• Very good body control and ability to locate the ball in the air
• After the catch, shows good balance and speed

Weaknesses​

• Less than prototypical size for an NFL WR
• May struggle against physical press-man coverage
• Despite running a variety of routes, most catches near LOS
• Prior to this season, had an issue with drops
• Older prospect that might be near his ceiling

Let’s See His Work​

UConn WR Skyler Bell is just so sudden with his cuts

Great look at that here early on at @ShrineBowl practice. Simple out route but even after the catch the DB couldn’t even get a hand on him despite having the sideline to help pic.twitter.com/jW08GE886t

— Trevor Sikkema (@TampaBayTre) January 23, 2026

It didn’t take long for Skyler Bell’s In-Game Athleticism™ to show up in the @ShrineBowl practice yesterday. #IGAScore https://t.co/fvgh0Pz9Vp pic.twitter.com/7PinNZ0DZW

— Reel Analytics (@RAanalytics) January 24, 2026

How He Fits on the Commanders​

The Commanders’ wide receivers are at opposite ends of the NFL spectrum. Top receivers Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel are both 30 with their best seasons likely behind them, but still productive players. Recent draft selections Luke McCaffrey and Jaylin Lane, along with midseason signee Treylon Burks, have shown flashes, but have some ways to go to be reliable starters. With Samuel, Burks, and Noah Brown – who is 30 like McLaurin and Samuel – set to be free agents, the team will need its young players to step up while finding additional help in free agency and the draft.

If the team decides to move on from Deebo Samuel, a player like Skyler Bell should be on their radar. His ability to create separation with route running and speed after the catch makes him an excellent option in the short and intermediate area of the field, a role where Samuel thrived. He might be limited to the slot if he struggles against press coverage, but he should find some success on the outside because of his route running and ability to track the ball. With only three picks in the first five rounds, free agency will go a long way in determining whether the Commanders can afford to draft a player like Bell. If they do, Bell could provide a reliable target to Jayden Daniels and round out a young, developing receiving corps.

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/nfl-draft...-more-than-a-slot-receiver-for-the-commanders

 

[Washington Commanders]

Daily Slop: 11 Feb 26 – Commanders announce multiple title changes & promotions for coaching staff

Sep 29, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Washington Commanders defensive line coach Darryl Tapp against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Commanders links​

Articles​

ESPN

Quinn expects more of Daniels under center with new OC Blough​

With Blough, the Commanders want to run more plays under center to help the offense — and Daniels — evolve. Washington ran an NFL-low 192 plays with the quarterback under center over the past two seasons, which was 158 fewer than the team with the next fewest (Cincinnati Bengals). Daniels has attempted only 18 passes from under center across his first two campaigns.

“We’re going to try to feature every part of Jayden in the way that makes him unique and special,” Quinn said.

It helped that Blough served as the assistant quarterbacks coach the past two years and developed a rapport with Daniels, Quinn added.

“Jayden’s a big part of our thinking in all the things we do,” Quinn said. “He wasn’t a part of the staff selection, but he drives a lot of the thinking and how we can feature him and where it goes. Having the ability to connect with him, that’s certainly a big deal for us.

“It wasn’t the deciding factor, but it certainly was a good factor.”

Blough said altering the Commanders’ style will help Daniels, especially playing under center. Washington ran no-huddle on 1,271 plays the past two seasons under Kingsbury; that was 810 more than any other team.

New #Commanders coordinators, David Blough and Daronte Jones overlapped with the Vikings in 2022. Jones was the DB coach and Blough the practice squad QB. Asked them both about that time today

"Go be a coach on the grass for us…We didn’t have scout cards when it came to David” pic.twitter.com/153tBlDsZs

— John Doran (@JohnDoranTV) February 10, 2026

---

Bullock’s Film Room (subscription)

The Commanders introduced new coordinators to the media on Tuesday; my main takeaways from those press conferences​

It’s Jones’s defense, not Quinn’s

One of the biggest questions facing Quinn this offseason when it came to hiring a new defensive coordinator was how much control of the defense would that coach actually have? Previously, Quinn looked to step back and allow Joe Whitt Jr. to run the defense as he saw fit. Quinn preferred to be more of an overseer, focusing on things like game management while empowering his coordinators to do their jobs. But when Whitt struggled this year, Quinn took over the play-calling duties and suggested he’d be open to keeping them next year.

That could have put off any potential candidates. Anyone coming to Washington from the outside would likely have wanted to run their own scheme, rather than try to implement Quinn’s. Fortunately, Quinn made it clear that he wants Jones to run his own defense, not Quinn’s.

“I wanted to be very clear with him on that, that this would be his system.” Quinn explained. “I think it’s hard to think for someone else, so I wanted to make sure coming here, he wouldn’t have to run my system, learn it. I said like you’re coming here to install it, man.”

Quinn continued. “Ultimately we’re putting in a new system and it’s going to start with his vision, with his terminology, the wording that we use, the communication that we say, that’s how it has to be. I think it’s difficult for someone else to come in and think like someone else. I want him to be able to fully express how he wants to coach it and that was important for me to share with him.”

Quinn said he told Jones he would be there for him to bounce ideas off of and provide any assistance he wanted or needed, but it’s good to hear that Quinn was clear on Jones being able to implement his system. That will be quite a change for Quinn too, which he seemed excited about.

“Putting that system together it’s funny actually, going through the whole process with him was exciting for me too. I like that the learning can be different and what needs to be different and what can be better. So those were things that fired me up.”

---

Commanders.com

5 takeaways from Dan Quinn’s coordinator press conference​

1. Both Blough and Jones are great teachers.

There’s a massive difference between Blough and Jones in terms of coaching experience. Blough is just two years into the profession, while Jones has coached at every level from high school to the NFL over nearly three decades. But there are some common threads between them, particularly when it comes to their coaching styles.

“I think you’ll find…the energy for teaching,” Quinn said.

It’s a core trait that Quinn values in his staff, as the Commanders want to be seen as a franchise that can get the most out of their players. He’s already seen that trait from Blough, who has worked closely with Daniels over the last two seasons. His research on Jones showed that he was also “remarkable” in his coaching style and ability to connect with players. He put belief in players to help “raise their game up,” Quinn said, and that was a sentiment shared by many players over his various coaching stints.

“Those are the types of things, from a leadership standpoint, that you want to hear,” Quinn said. “Developing players, making an impact, finding ways to teach it where it can be clear and concise.”

---

Commanders Wire

6 takeaways from Commanders’ coordinators David Blough, Daronte Jones​

Don’t expect a carbon copy of Brian Flores’ defense

Jones has had an impressive list of mentors throughout his time as a coach. And while some believed he was hired because he’s worked for Brian Flores with Minnesota the last three seasons, Jones has plenty of experience to pull from. Jones has worked for Marvin Lewis, Mike Zimmer, Vance Joseph, Lou Anarumo and Flores — all of whom, at one time or another, have been considered some of the NFL’s top defensive minds. You could make the case that Flores and Joseph are the NFL’s two best coordinators currently.

Just because he spent the past three seasons with Flores, don’t expect a carbon copy of Minnesota’s defense.

“You naturally want to be moldable because I’ve been around so many different schemes, I think that’s an advantage of mine,” he said. “There aren’t too many schemes that I have not been a part of. There’s, you know, everyone comes from some type of tree. And so, because of that, I’ve been able to answer your question, be able to implement various things from each scheme that I like and I want to pull from. So, whether it’s the Zimmer scheme, ‘Hey, I like this on third down, I like the mug looks there’. Or if it’s Flores and the versatility and how we can use, one person in multiple ways based off of their strengths. That’s what you want to pull from.”

That’s the perfect answer. While everyone would love to see Flores’ success in Washington, Jones doesn’t have the same players, and he realizes that. The great thing about his experiences is that he’s seen everything. He’s waited a long time for this opportunity and he’s ready.

Very detailed answer from new #Commanders DC Daronte Jones on a question from @JPFinlayNBCS… how much of Brian Flores' aggressive scheme will he bring to Washington?#RaiseHail pic.twitter.com/kFw09XvQfi

— NBC4 Sports (@NBC4Sports) February 10, 2026

---

Riggo’s Rag

Daronte Jones has big plans for Frankie Luvu in his new Commanders defense​

Luvu did what the coaches asked to help the team, even though it was to his detriment performance-wise. Jones plans to change all that.

Washington’s new defensive coordinator is a big fan of Luvu. He also sees him as a downhill force who’s best when matched up against running backs, allowing him to be instinctive and use his exceptional athleticism to consistently get around the football.

“I love Frankie Luvu. When you watch him on tape, he’s a guy that, before I even got here, we would watch. I love his athleticism. He’s best going downhill, getting him matched up on running backs. That’s always a key in terms of matchability; putting guys in advantageous positions. He’s best when he can go downhill and use his athleticism to win on the edges. Use his speed — sometimes in space — to encounter those matchups. We want to put him in that situation where he’s matched up with running backs.”Daronte Jones

Jones is devising a new scheme centered on athletic traits and positioning his players for success. Whether it’s 3-4, 4-3, or 4-2-5 is moot; they’re interchangeable. But the new coordinator has already made up his mind about Luvu, and the player will no doubt be thrilled.

Frankie Luvu’s career took off in Carolina under Mike Siravo

Siravo just spent the last 3 years in Minnesota with Daronte Jones. I suspect they’ve talked about Luvu and how to best use him https://t.co/50b4ixgpkg

— Resh (@reshmanuel) February 11, 2026

---

Commanders Wire

Daronte Jones gives an unexpected answer when asked what his defense will look like​

New Washington defensive coordinator Daronte Jones spoke in a mild, enthusiastic tone; he didn’t seek to fire up the fan base.

Jones spoke Tuesday at his introductory press conference, becoming the new defensive coordinator for the Commanders, replacing Joe Whitt Jr., who held the position the last two seasons (2024-25). One of the most noticeable elements from Jones was how he did not speak. There was no big talk of how this defense will punish people, arrive violently, get to the quarterback, etc.

When asked what his defense will look like, Jones interestingly replied, “I’m not going to say, you know, all the typical coaching buzzwords, but I will say that when you turn on the tape, joy would be one, all right? That would be the number one thing that if you turn on the tape or you watching TV from wherever you may be watching from, to see the joy that these players have when they step on the field, the joy that they have when they’re playing with one another, the comradery. That’s the number one thing that we want to have on the defense.”

Commanders fans,

Meet your new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones.

I asked him how he plans to fix this Washington defense?

His answer pic.twitter.com/0AE2PLZVSc

— Scott Abraham (@Scott7news) February 11, 2026

---

Commanders.com

Commanders extend P Tress Way​

In 2025, Way earned his third Pro Bowl honor after leading the NFL in percentage of punts downed inside the 20-yard line (52.8), and opponent average starting field position after punts (17.9). Washington’s punt unit also led the league in opponent punt return average (4.6), and opponent punt return yards (114).

During the 2024 season, Way passed P Mike Bragg for the most punt yards in team history. He also totaled 50 punts on the year, his lowest mark since 2016 (49).

All smiles for Year 13 pic.twitter.com/FyY03tyQ8R

— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) February 11, 2026

Way earned Pro Bowl honors following the 2019 and 2022 seasons. In 2022, he earned Special Teams Player of the Month for October after Way led the NFL with 16 punts inside the 20 which was five more than the next closest punter. He also led the NFL in net average during the month of October. Out of the 28 punts he attempted, he did not record a touchback. He was the only punter in the NFL that had 25-plus punts with no touchbacks.

Pro Bowl punter Tress Way is back with the Washington Commanders. One year extension.

If he plays in all 17 games next year, he'll move to No. 3 all-time in regular season games played for the franchise trailing Darrell Green and Monte Coleman.

— CWallSports (@cwallse) February 10, 2026

---

Commanders Roundtable

[URL='https://roundtable.io/sports/nfl/commanders/news/commanders-announce-several-additions-to-2026-coaching-staff']Commanders announce several additions to 2026 coaching staff[/URL]​

The most notable may be former head coach Anthony Lynn no longer serving as run game coordinator with the longtime coach entering 2026 as the team’s running back coach, a title he’s also held since he joined the organization in 2024. Lynn also drew a pair of interviews for head coaching vacancies this offseason, though quickly materialized into a long shot with both searches ending days after the reported interviews. New offensive coordinator David Blough expressed confidence in Jacory Croskey-Merritt coming off his rookie season, but also noted “there will definitely be acquisitions that take place” at the position this offseason.

Jesse Madden, the grandson of the late John Madden, joined the organization in 2025 as a quality control coach, but will now step in as assistant running backs coach behind Lynn in 2026.

Andre Coleman will now step in as assistant wide receivers and returners coach in 2026 after joining the organization in 2024 as an offensive assistant.

Shane Toub, son of Kansas City Chiefs special teams coordinator David Toub, will step in as the assistant offensive line coach under Darnell Stapleton, the team’s new offensive line coach.

George Banko will also step in as the new assistant linebackers coach in his third season with the organization.

With William Gay stepping in as the new cornerbacks/defensive backs coach, he’ll have a new coach alongside him with Tommy Donatell stepping in as defensive backs/safeties coach.

Longtime assistant John Pagano will now also serve as outside linebackers coach after spending the previous two seasons as a senior defensive assistant.

Washington also announced both Eric Henderson and Darryl Tapp as the new defensive line and assistant defensive line coach, along with the DJ Williams hire as new quarterbacks coach. Wes Welker, meanwhile, was listed with an offensive analyst title as Bobby Engram remains the wide receiver coach in 2026.

DQ has talked often about promoting from within

2025 -> 2026

Blough: Asst QB Coach -> QB Coach
Stapleton: Asst OL Coach -> OL Coach
Toub: OQC Coach -> Asst OL Coach
Coleman: OA -> Asst WR/Returner Coach
Madden: DQC Coach -> Asst RB Coach
Banko: DQC Coach -> Asst LB Coach

— Resh (@reshmanuel) February 10, 2026

The Commanders made several coaching staff changes beyond the few Dan Quinn mentioned today. They include:

* Anthony Lynn is no longer their run gane coordinator
* Jesse Madden, John Madden's grandson, is the new assistant RB coach pic.twitter.com/RPzTOQXwF1

— Ben Standig (@BenStandig) February 10, 2026

---

Riggo’s Rag

Commanders subtle coaching shift hints at massive schematic change under Daronte Jones​

Amid the wholesale staffing alterations confirmed by the Commanders, John Pagano was given the new title of outside linebackers coach. He has spent the last two seasons as a senior defensive assistant in Washington and has also served as a coordinator with the Los Angeles Chargers throughout his accomplished coaching career. Perhaps more telling is what this new role potentially represents.

Much of the speculation following Jones’ arrival centered on what sort of scheme he plans to run. It will be interchangeable, depending on the in-game situation. However, it appears the Commanders will move to a 3-4 base defense, consistent with how Brian Flores operates with the Minnesota Vikings.

This shouldn’t come as a surprise, considering Jones spent the last two seasons as Flores’ right-hand man in Minnesota. Pagano has proven credentials coaching 3-4 outside linebackers, so it’s a logical fit if this is the Commanders’ new schematic direction.

---

Podcasts & videos​

Exclusive sit-down interview with Commanders new Offensive Coordinator David Blough | Next Man Up​

---

NFC East links​

Blogging the Boys

Dear Steelers: Mike McCarthy’s time with Cowboys proves he’s not the answer you’re looking for​

Following a disappointing 7–10 season and a tenure laced with early playoff exits, Jerry Jones and McCarthy opted to part ways. While a contract dispute was claimed to be a dealbreaker, the front office repeatedly expressed a level of uncertainty whenever they were asked about McCarthy’s future with the team. Combine that with the team’s underwhelming finishes, and it just seemed that his time in Dallas had run its course.

McCarthy spent last season unemployed. Maybe it was his time to reflect, watch tape, or just take some time to relax. After a year hiatus, he landed on his feet, and those feet landed in Pittsburgh. Returning to his hometown, he replaces Mike Tomlin and becomes only the fourth head coach the Steelers have employed since 1969. The other three have won Super Bowls for the Steel City.

While the Steelers are hoping that streak continues as they bank on his championship experience, most Cowboys fans are mostly just relieved that he’s now someone else’s problem.

---

Big Blue View

NY Giants 2026 NFL Draft scouting report: Tim Keenan III, iDL, Alabama​

Keenan III projects as a rotational nose tackle at the NFL level.

There’s quite a lot to like about him, starting with the effort with which he plays. Keenan III’s energy level is infectious and he will absolutely have fans among coaches around the NFL. However, he is a true specialist on defense, and that could limit his draft stock.

Keenan III is an excellent run defender and a true nose tackle who can play in a 3 or 4-man front. However, he offers almost no upside as a pass rusher and his appeal could be limited for teams that depend on a four-man pass rush. Likewise, his ability to impact the play comes with a very limited range, and he quickly becomes a non-factor the further from his initial alignment the ball goes.

No team will be upset to draft Keenan III, however it should be understood that his athletic and schematic limitations will likely put a hard cap on the ceiling of his draft stock.

Final Word: A late Day 2 or early Day 3 value

---

The #Giants are hiring former #Titans head coach Brian Callahan as their new QBs coach and passing game coordinator, per me and @MikeGarafolo.

John Harbaugh continued to round out his staff, adding QB expertise and head coach experience. pic.twitter.com/iTrirFhgp4

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 11, 2026

---

NFL league links​

Articles​

ESPN

Mike Vrabel: Patriots to keep Will Campbell at left tackle​

Patriots coach Mike Vrabel said New England is committed to keeping Will Campbell at left tackle.

Campbell, the No. 4 pick in last year’s NFL draft, had multiple blocking miscues in New England’s 29-13 loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX.

With some NFL teams projecting Campbell as a guard last year coming out of LSU, debate on his future position in New England swirled in some parts of social media after the Super Bowl. Campbell declined to speak to reporters immediately after the game.

Vrabel acknowledged the scrutiny that Campbell faced in his rookie season, comparing it to playing quarterback and cornerback, and even being a head coach.

“Will is 22 years old, he’s our left tackle, he’ll get better, he’ll get stronger,” Vrabel said Tuesday in his season-ending news conference at Gillette Stadium. “There are moments he played well, moments he blocked the guy, there are plays he’d like to have back.

“We’re not moving Will to guard, or center or tight end or anywhere else.”

Campbell, who was taking the loss hard, had declined to answer questions from reporters after the Super Bowl LX. He apologized to media members Tuesday.

Here’s the video. pic.twitter.com/WGJgszJaAd

— Kurt Benkert (@KurtBenkert) February 10, 2026

---

NFL.com

The secret weapon NFL offenses are using to buy QBs an extra half-second​

No doubt enticed by the chance to gain nearly 0.6 extra seconds to run a play (a lifetime, in football terms), offenses around the league have adopted the strategy [of the chip block] with increasing frequency. In 2023, teams employed chip blocks on over 20% of pass plays (21.3%) for the first time since Next Gen Stats began tracking them, in 2018. Then, the rate spiked to 23.9% in 2024 and leapt again to 26.8% this past season.

View Link

[Aiden Hutchinson] was chip-blocked on 127 pass rushes this season, the third-most in the NFL, for a chip-block rate of 22.2%. Compare that to his numbers from his first three pro seasons combined: Hutchinson was chip-blocked 142 times, for a chip-block rate of 11%. Meanwhile, in Houston, Anderson and Danielle Hunter became the first pair of teammates in the NGS tracking era who were both chipped at least 90 times in the same season. And in Pittsburgh, Watt was met with 149 chip blocks in 2024, the most any player has faced in a season since at least 2018, and followed it up with 134 in 2025. Watt recorded the two lowest pressure rates of his career in 2024 and 2025, and it’s fair to wonder if the extra blocking attention was a factor.

Then there’s Garrett, who is somehow not only adapting but thriving under the heat of the added challenge in Cleveland. The newly minted Defensive Player of the Year generated a baffling 23.0% pressure rate when chipped in 2025, compared to just 15.6% in one-on-one matchups. He recorded 29 pressures against chips, 10 more than any other player in a season since at least 2018, along with 5.5 of his 23 sacks.

From 2018 to 2024, six teams set a chip on at least 30% of their pass plays — a rate matched by nine different offenses this season alone. Which teams and coaches are leading the charge? As with many of the NFL’s most enterprising innovations of the last decade, the Sean McVay-Kyle Shanahan coaching tree has delivered an outsized impact in the realm of chip blocks.

The trend has translated to individual blockers, as well. From 2018 to 2021, no single player set 100 or more chip blocks in a season. From 2022 to ’24, one tight end per season managed the feat. And then, of course, in 2025, there was a complete upheaval, with eight different tight ends providing chip help at least 100 times, while T.J. Hockenson, Jake Ferguson, Kyle Pitts and Trey McBride became the first four players in the Next Gen Stats database to set at least 110 chips.

The rise of the chip block coincides with the increased use of multiple tight ends. In 2025, teams used multiple TEs on 25.5% of pass plays, the highest rate Next Gen Stats has tracked (going back to 2016). They chipped on 29.2% of those plays while chipping on 25.1% of all others.

---

aBit o’Twitter​

New #Commanders DC Daronte Jones, a Prince George's county native, talks about returning home to the DMV, with shoutouts to Kenmoor Middle School and Matthew Henson Elementary School@pgcps @kenmoor_middle@JPFinlayNBCS @iamwesmoore #RaiseHail pic.twitter.com/zqGRI9fsuT

— NBC4 Sports (@NBC4Sports) February 10, 2026

Quinn texted the three of us with a nice message last week. Solid human instincts. Nice of him to do this for @tashanreed and @Tom_Schad, too. https://t.co/c5H8FuLFCv

— Barry Svrluga (@barrysvrluga) February 10, 2026

The owner of the Washington City Paper is Mark Ein, a D.C. venture capitalist and part owner of the Commanders and Baltimore Orioles. https://t.co/nLzSQl3Sym

— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) February 11, 2026

#Seahawks S Julian Love before his INT of Drake Maye in the Super Bowl:

“Classic young quarterback. As soon as the back foot hits, he’s going to where he wants, but he’s pausing for a second to confirm he’s open. He’s not blindly doing it like Stafford.”pic.twitter.com/GSofZP93Ut

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) February 11, 2026

Here is our first look at the 2026 Expert Consensus Board: pic.twitter.com/ig5YpOWwr7

— Marcus Mosher (@Marcus_Mosher) February 10, 2026

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/daily-slo...e-title-changes-promotions-for-coaching-staff

 

[Washington Commanders]

Daily Slop: 12 Feb 26 – New Commanders OC David Blough: “How do we get Terry [McLaurin] 10 targets a game?“

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - OCTOBER 13: Terry McLaurin #17 of the Washington Commanders catches a touchdown pass against the Baltimore Ravens during the second quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on October 13, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Commanders links​

Articles​

Bullock’s Film Room (subscription)

Commanders Free Agent Fits: Cornerback​

High Profile: Nahshon Wright, Bears, 27.

It feels a bit strange to put Wright’s name in the high profile category given this time last year, most casual NFL fans wouldn’t have known who he was. He is a long, rangy cornerback, listed at 6-foot-4, 199 pounds and has nearly 33-inch arms. Prior to the draft, he compared himself to Richard Sherman, so it should be no surprise that Dan Quinn was influential in the Cowboys drafting him in the third round back in 2021. At the time, it was seen as a huge reach and a big project, but Quinn had personally attended Wright’s pro day and appreciated his size, length and ball skills.

Interestingly, Dan Quinn isn’t the only coach on the Commanders staff that has worked with Wright. After three seasons in Dallas, the Cowboys traded Wright to the Vikings, where Wright spent a year on the practice squad under new Commanders defensive coordinator Daronte Jones. So there is plenty of familiarity with Wright on the Commanders coaching staff already. However it should be pointed out that Jones was with the Vikings when they released Wright and Dan Quinn didn’t then go and sign him. But Wright did team up with Al Harris in Chicago, who of course worked under Dan Quinn in Dallas.

Despite the connections to Quinn and Jones, Wright has produced very little in his NFL career until 2025. He was in and out of the lineup in Dallas under Quinn and as soon as Quinn left in 2024, the Cowboys traded him away. He didn’t make the Vikings final roster in 2024, instead spending the year on the practice squad. So he really had very little to shout about. However, Wright had a breakout season in 2025, registering five interceptions, which was joint second in the NFL behind only his teammate Kevin Byard. Wright also led the Bears with 11 pass break ups, so clearly he had an outstanding year with getting his hands on the ball.

NFL teams pay a premium for cornerbacks that can create turnovers, so Wright has potentially played his way into a significant contract this offseason. Salary cap website Spotrac is currently projecting him to get a three-year, $50 million contract with an average annual value of $16.7 million. That’s their highest projected contract for a cornerback in this free agent class. That feels a bit over the top given he has just one year of real production, but it speaks to the value of interceptions.

When watching Wright, it’s easy to see the upside that had Dan Quinn so enamoured when the Cowboys drafted him in 2021. The size, length and ball skills show up almost immediately. He can be physical at the line of scrimmage, using his long arms to jam receivers and disrupt their releases, but the size and length is most often seen with the ball skills.

---

Commanders Roundtable

Washington Commanders emphasizing Terry McLaurin’s role in 2026​

“This thing’s going to be built around how do we get Terry ten targets a game and get him explosive receptions after explosive receptions to kind of flip the field,” Blough told WUSA9.

"This thing's going to be built around, how do we get Terry 10 targets a game?"

Some insight into Blough's offense and the plan to get Terry McLaurin double digit opportunities to make a play. More in writing from @DHarrison82 here: https://t.co/rebWXvJmRk pic.twitter.com/C9pu408nnl

— John Doran (@JohnDoranTV) February 12, 2026

McLaurin eclipsed that mark just once in 2025 after posting seven catches for 96 yards and one touchdown on 14 targets in the Sunday night overtime loss vs. Denver, his first game back in a month. The veteran would draw more than five targets in just three other games in all of 2025, including seven targets for five catches and 63 yards in the Christmas Day loss vs. Dallas.

Of course, part of the equation for McLaurin was his delayed return to the team ahead of the season opener amid ongoing contract negotiations as he now enters year two of his renewed three-year deal, but with that now in the rear view mirror, the longtime Commander has a chance to establish consistency through the offseason before stepping back into his feature role.

McLaurin is coming off a career-low four catches on throws 20 yards or more downfield, but with a shift to an under-center offense and commitment to the run game that could set up more play action and downfield shots, the veteran can have a chance to change course after a setback 2025 season.

---

Riggo’s Rag

Chris Canty placed Commanders’ Jayden Daniels as the NFC’s second-best quarterback​

Daniels wasn’t up to his exceptionally high standards even when healthy, which led to the inevitable criticism from sections of the media. Caleb Williams won the NFC North and made the playoffs with the Chicago Bears. Drake Maye won the AFC Conference and reached the Super Bowl. That piles more pressure on the former LSU standout, but one former pro-turned-analyst made his feelings about the true balance of power crystal clear.

Chris Canty of ESPN listed his top-five NFC quarterbacks entering the 2026 offseason. Matthew Stafford, who won the NFL MVP, was at the top. Daniels came in second, and Williams was ranked at No. 5.

Chris Canty knows ball. pic.twitter.com/j1UtXeRBcy

— Riggo's Rag (@RiggosRag) February 10, 2026

This caused an inevitable stir among fans across the league on social media. Canty’s reasoning was simple; Daniels shone when the lights were brightest as a rookie, almost getting the Commanders into the Super Bowl. Being hurt for most of his second season doesn’t detract from his outstanding capabilities under center.

---

ESPN

NFL overhaul tiers: Rebuild time for 18 non-playoff teams​

Somewhere between contention and reset​

Washington Commanders

Top free agent: Deebo Samuel
Projected 2026 draft picks: 6

The hope for a quick turnaround: Washington is a year removed from competing in the NFC title game. When healthy, Jayden Daniels is a top-10 quarterback who will move the offense into a more respectable range in 2026. GM Adam Peters has cap space to replenish the roster. Injuries plagued Washington more than most teams last season.

Why it might take longer than hoped: Washington was the hardest team of the bunch to evaluate, so it gets its own category. The Commanders were close in 2024. The roster is problematic in spots, though. Defensive impact players are older. Pass rush is a major need. And some recent high draft picks have been slow to develop. Peters has just two draft picks in the first four rounds this year because of previous trades. Adding a skill player at tight end or running back would be useful.

---

The Athletic (paywall)

Why Dan Quinn and the Commanders are taking a gamble with 2 first-time play callers​

Quinn is taking a rare step. He’s putting his faith — and possibly his head-coaching career — in the hands of not one but two first-year NFL coordinators and play callers, David Blough and Daronte Jones, when the recent track record of teams with two first-time play callers isn’t great.

The 2024 New England Patriots, with offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt and defensive coordinator DeMarcus Covington, went 4-13 — the same record as the 2023 Arizona Cardinals and 2021 New York Jets, who also had two first-time play callers. The 2020 Panthers fared a hair better, going 5-11 in Joe Brady’s first year as a play caller alongside defensive coordinator Phil Snow.

It’s a gamble for Quinn, who isn’t doing this in his first season with the Commanders; he’s doing it in Year 3, after a dreadful 2025 season that undoubtedly warmed his seat.

In short, he is trying to recapture a bit of the old while seeking something brand new.

Quinn has repeatedly used two descriptions when asked over the last couple of months what he wants from his coordinators. The first is collaboration. He wants his coaches to use the resources of the collective, since many of Washington’s assistants come from different systems, have different ideas and use different methods of coaching. And the second is teaching. Since arriving in Washington, Quinn has stressed the development of his players and coaches.

He’s sought coaches who have a history of adapting to their players and who teach in ways that help players learn.

On defense, Quinn stressed that the system will be Jones’ and not his own.

“Ultimately, we’re putting in a new system, and it’s going to start with his vision, with his terminology, the wording that we use, the communication,” Quinn said. “And that’s how it has to be. I think it’s difficult for someone else to come in and think like someone else.”

And Quinn said he doesn’t want to retain many of the things that failed last season during the Commanders’ 5-12 campaign. Which is partly why he is willing to bet on these two new voices, even if they both will be coordinators for the first time.

“I want to recapture that energy of that swagger of how we want to play, the style, the attitude of it,” he said. “And I’m certain we can do that.”

---

Commanders.com

5 takeaways from David Blough’s press conference​

1. His experience as a quarterback will be vital.

Blough has no experience calling plays at any level, let alone for an NFL team, but that doesn’t mean he’s entering his new role completely unarmed.

Blough — an undrafted free agent out of Purdue — had a journeyman’s career during his short stint in the NFL with just seven starts. However, it was a beneficial time for him, as he got to work with offensive gurus like Kevin O’Connell and Ben Johnson. Though he has no experience calling plays in those systems, he does know how to run them and what to expect when they are executed properly.

“You get to be in the room where all those conversations take place and you hear how the coordinator thinks, so while you’re not maybe calling the play in the huddle as a backup like I was for the majority of my career, you get let in the chess match of what a play caller is thinking, being on the headset, hearing the play call come in, the dialect, all the little things that go into making a well-oiled machine kind of run.”

Commanders.com

Logan Paulsen’s top WR prospects of 2026​

9. Malachi Fields

One thing: “I think when you watch a highlight reel of Malachi Fields, you’re gonna be like, ‘Dude, this guy’s a stud.’ And he is a stud. I think he’s got a great catch radius. I think he tracks the ball well. He’s got long arms. He tracks football well, looks great in the helmet from Notre Dame. I think does a great job in one-on-ones can win on a slant. I think he blocks well. I think he’s tough. I think he’s urgent.”

8. Chris Bell

One thing: this was a pleasant surprise, bro. I got strong, strong AJ Brown vibes when I saw him play. Just the way he caught the football, the way he was after the catch. He has this great catch and run versus JMU where he catches a slant, breaks a tackle, and then walks off on the defense. Now it’s JMU, but like the after the catch, the strength, the hands like this, this was a X receiver all day, every day and twice on Sunday. Like, I just was blown away by him.

7. Germie Bernard

One thing: “I just fell in love with him, man. I just think he’s a football player in the truest sense of the word. I think he runs excellent routes. I think he’s got a great feel. They line him up all over the formation. He lines him in the backfield to run choice routes. They use him in motion. He puts his face on people. I think he’s tremendously physical. There is a little bit of hot cold to him, but when he’s on, he is on, man.”

---

ESPN

‘Selling Sunset’ star pays $470K for HOF-er John Riggins’ Super Bowl jersey​

As a kid in Northern California, Jason Oppenheim wanted one item more than any other: a John Riggins jersey. When he was around 8 or 9 years old, he finally received one as a gift. It paired well with the poster of the Washington Hall of Fame fullback on his bedroom wall.

As an adult, the “Selling Sunset” star wanted the Riggins jersey. This time, price didn’t matter — he paid $470,000 to get one.

“I would have gone higher,” he said, “a decent amount higher.”

Now, he’ll pair that jersey with something more than a poster: He also bought Riggins’ Super Bowl ring for another $105,750. Oppenheim bought them Saturday at the 18th Super Bowl Live Auction conducted by Hunt Auctions.

The jersey just so happened to be one that Riggins wore in Super Bowl XVII to earn that ring as well as Super Bowl MVP honors. That’s when he broke a fourth-and-1 tackle attempt by corner Don McNeal en route to a 43-yard touchdown with just over 10 minutes remaining to give Washington a 20-17 lead. It was the key play in the franchise’s first of three Super Bowl victories.

That also happened to be the shot on the poster Oppenheim once owned.

He’s told Riggins that if he ever needed to wear the ring for an event, he would loan it to him. And Oppenheim said he has talked to the team about finding a way to display the jersey so more fans can see it.

“I wanted to make sure these items were not controlled by someone who would hoard them, keep them from the fan base and have it as some type of investment opportunity,” he said. “I don’t feel I own these things; I feel they’re owned by the fans. To be a custodian is an honor.

---

Podcasts & videos​

Exclusive sit-down interview with Commanders new Defensive Coordinator Daronte Jones | Next Man Up​

---

NFC East links​

Kevin Patullo is leaving the Eagles​

Nick Sirianni’s right-hand man finds a landing spot

Bleeding Green Nation

Nick Sirianni originally announced that he was making an OC change back on January 13, two days after the Eagles’ playoff loss to the San Francisco 49ers. At the time, it was reported that Patullo might stay on staff in a different role.

But while Patullo was not technically fired, he effectively was. It never seemed like a great idea to bring him back in a lesser role, for either his sake or the Eagles’ sake. That would’ve been an awkward dynamic.

The Eagles hired former Green Bay Packers quarterbacks coach Sean Mannion to be their new play-calling offensive coordinator. The team also hired former Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard to be their new pass game coordinator, which is the role Patullo held in Philly before being promoted to OC after the 2024 season.

Sirianni is obviously very tight with Patullo, so, this is a big loss for the Eagles’ head coach. But his buddy ultimately landed a new job not too far away from where he attended high school and college in Florida.

Patullo spoke to multiple teams about assistant roles. He’s been a trusted assistant for Nick Sirianni who has helped him with some of his head-coaching responsibilities during the week and on gameday the last five years. Will do the same for new #Dolphins HC Jeff Hafley. https://t.co/EiX5eO50w0

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) February 11, 2026

---

The Ringer

The Eagles are on the precipice of a reset​

There’s no prior connection between him and Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni, which means there’s a real chance that Philadelphia is adopting a brand-new scheme built around pre-snap motion, under-center runs, and play-action passes, three things we haven’t seen much of in the Sirianni era.

This kind of change will push quarterback Jalen Hurts to add new layers to his game as a passer. He’ll have to throw between the numbers more often than he ever has in his career, which hasn’t been his preference. Since he became the starter in 2021, Philadelphia’s offense has just 903 throws between the numbers. Not only does that rank last in the NFL (and more than 100 fewer than the next-lowest team), but it’s woefully below the league average of 1,258.

But he and Sirianni aren’t the only ones getting out of their comfort zones and facing change. Philadelphia offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland resigned last week, leaving the team without one of the league’s best-ever position coaches. ESPN’s Tim McManus reported that Stoutland was miffed by offensive changes last year that he wasn’t consulted on, and that lack of communication led to his decision. And if Sirianni was willing to go around someone as tenured and proven as Stoutland to protect former coordinator (and close friend) Kevin Patullo, one has to wonder what he’d be willing to do to an unproven and unfamiliar play caller like Mannion if the offense struggles and Sirianni thinks his job is on the line.

Just over a year removed from winning a title, Philadelphia is shaping up to take a step back on both sides of the ball.

Even the most optimistic Eagles fans would have to acknowledge the danger that could come from undergoing this major metamorphosis without a trustworthy head coach or superstar quarterback. If things go off the rails in 2026, a larger organizational reset is a real possibility.

---

ESPN

NFL overhaul tiers: Rebuild time for 18 non-playoff teams​

A few moves away​

Dallas Cowboys

Top free agent: George Pickens
Projected 2026 draft picks: 8

The hope for a quick turnaround: The offense was humming in 2025, and the core players will return, with the team expected to franchise-tag receiver Pickens. Quarterback Dak Prescott is squarely in his prime under coach Brian Schottenheimer. The defensive line is stocked with talent, and Dallas has two first-round picks with which to address its defense because of the Micah Parsons trade.

Why it might take longer than hoped: Last season’s defensive back seven underperformed, forcing a look in the mirror this offseason. The addition of defensive coordinator Christian Parker will help, but reinforcements are sorely needed. Bringing back Pickens and running back Javonte Williams would be prudent.

Sneaky good trajectory​

New York Giants

Top free agent: Wan’Dale Robinson
Projected 2026 draft picks: 7

The hope for a quick turnaround: Several head coaches experienced fast success in 2025, and John Harbaugh will try to do the same with a Year 1 turnaround in 2026. The Giants’ roster is reaching respectable levels of talent after a few down years. Quarterback Jaxson Dart is a selling point. The defensive line is among the league’s most talented. And receiver Malik Nabers will return from ACL and meniscus tears.

Why it might take longer than hoped: The Giants must shake their losing culture. New York hasn’t won more than six games once in the past nine seasons. The shift might not happen overnight. The supporting casts on both sides of the ball haven’t been good enough in recent years. That has to change.

---

NFL league links​

Tweets​

Joey Porter: Ben Roethlisberger wasn't good teammate, person – via @ESPN App https://t.co/QuZjNSpCGp

— Zac (@newc88) February 12, 2026

---

NFL Draft​

NFL.com

Bucky Brooks’ top five 2026 NFL Draft prospects by position 1.0​

---

I feel comfortable saying Caleb Downs is the best football player in the 2026 draft class. He won't be the first pick—you have to consider upside, positional value, all that, and there are guys with more of all that stuff. But no one in the class is a better football player. https://t.co/cLmAWzpNy3

— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) February 12, 2026

---

From The Athletichttps://t.co/m3xBxgaATa

— Bill-in-Bangkok (@billhorgan2005) February 12, 2026

---

aBit o’Twitter​

WR Deebo Samuel's contract is set to void today, leaving behind $12,344,420 of dead cap to the #Commanders.

The 30-year-old earned $18.25M in 2025, and carries a near $16M valuation into free agency.

— Spotrac (@spotrac) February 12, 2026

Not necessarily gone. Just a free agent. Washington can bring him back https://t.co/kp4JqjMpEh

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) February 12, 2026

New #Commanders OC David Blough was a practice squad QB with the Vikings in 2022 when new DC Daronte Jones was the DBs coach there

Jones talks with @JPFinlayNBCS about Blough from their time together in Minnesota

"He was really sharp… he ran the show"#RaiseHail pic.twitter.com/5Lz8fynGmS

— NBC4 Sports (@NBC4Sports) February 11, 2026

Wondered if he might have gotten a similar role in Washington, having coached with Quinn in Seattle and coached Commanders OC David Blough when Blough played in Detroit. But if the Commanders want to add more experience to help Blough, it won’t be Bevell https://t.co/eiWk5ftLNI

— Mark Bullock (@MarkBullockNFL) February 11, 2026

#Vikings HOF Jared Allen on if he would welcome a Kirk Cousins reunion in Minnesota:

“No. In his prime we weren’t winning championships with him.”

(@UpAndAdamsShow) pic.twitter.com/NIMbaC8M2A

— VikingzFanPage (@vikingzfanpage) February 11, 2026

More and more, I'm getting the vibe that Washington will do a home-and-away internationally. Potentially a home game in Germany or London, along with an away game in London against the Jags. Jags host in Wembley, so the Commanders could host in Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and just… https://t.co/lWjD7BGIrX

— David Harrison (@DHarrison82) February 11, 2026

---

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/daily-slo...ow-do-we-get-terry-mclaurin-10-targets-a-game

 

[Washington Commanders]

2026 NFL Mock Draft Roundup: Two favorites for the Washington Commanders

STANFORD, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 05: Nakia Watson #25 of the Washington State Cougars runs with the ball pursued by David Bailey #23 of the Stanford Cardinal during the second quarter of an NCAA football game at Stanford Stadium on November 05, 2022 in Stanford, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Super Bowl is over and we’re starting to get ready for free agency next month, and the draft in April. The Washington Commanders couldn’t repeat the success they had in the first year of the Adam Peters/Dan Quinn/Jayden Daniels era. They went from NFC Championship Game to No. 7 overall pick after a injury-filled, disappointing season that led to the Commanders getting two new coordinators.

This roundup has 81 mock drafts and 37 of them feature EDGE rushers. Texas’s David Bailey has taken the lead for pass rushers, with 24 mocks sending him to Washington. Miami’s Rueben Bain is still a popular selection for the Commanders with 10 mocks giving him to Washington. Auburn’s Kevin Faulk has been getting linked to the #7 pick, and Clemson’s T.J. Parker gets his first mention for the Commanders.

EDGE is easily the most mocked position for Washington, but safety Caleb Downs continues to get mentioned as the best player in this year’s draft. He goes to the Commanders in the first round in 22 different mock drafts, and he goes earlier than that in a few more. A safety that early has to be special, and the Downs hype train continues to grow with Dane Brugler getting told by some scouts that he’s the best safety they’ve ever scouted. RIPST21.

Fun question I've been asking to scouts: "Caleb Downs is the best safety prospect you've personally scouted since….?"

A few have answered "Ever" https://t.co/6jOUZWe677

— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) February 12, 2026

That’s a lot of love in the secondary for one player, but we also have a cornerback to talk about this week. Jermod McCoy was the lone CB in our last roundup, but he’s been replaced by LSU’s Mansoor Delane. Fox Sports Joel Klatt has Delane as his top corner in the draft, and the Commanders obviously have a need with Marshon Lattimore’s torn ACL and pending gun charges. Rookie Trey Amos also ended the season on IR, and Mike Sainristil needs a reset under new DC Daronte Jones.

Ohio State LB Arvell Reese is expected to be a Top-5 pick, but continues to “fall” in some mock drafts that want to send him to Washington. The more realistic LB option from Ohio State is Sonny Styles who gets mocked to the Commanders almost three times as much as Reese. He would be considered a reach at No. 7 overall, but he’s rising up some boards, and is becoming a more popular option for Washington.

Wide receiver and running back round out the roundup, with nine picks combined. Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love continues to get the nod from Walter Football, but the odds remain low for the Commanders to draft a RB that high with no second-round pick. Carnell Tate was only sent to Washington. Jordyn Tyson was a stud at Arizona State, could he find his footing with another Arizona State product throwing him the ball?

Position selections:

EDGE – 37

S – 22

CB – 2

LB – 11

RB – 4

WR – 5

Where will Washington pick, and who/what position should they take next year?

---

David Bailey, EDGE, Texas​

The Athletic (Baumgardner)​

If Mendoza was the top offensive transfer this past college football season, then Bailey was the best defensive pickup. He exploded to become the country’s top pass rusher after moving from Stanford to Texas Tech. And though there are questions about what he’ll bring on early downs, his move set is deeper than anyone else’s in this class.

Round 3: Davison Igbinosun, CB, Ohio State

NFL.com (Edholm)​

Washington didn’t do enough to address its defensive needs last year, especially its dormant pass rush. Bailey isn’t a complete edge just yet, but his explosive get-off and pass-rush juice would help upgrade the Commanders’ front quickly.

NFL.com (Frelund)​

Dan Quinn is a defensive-minded head coach and pairing him with Bailey is a win-win for both parties in terms of coaching and raw-skills fit.

CBS Sports (Brockermeyer)​

David Bailey is a natural edge rusher with the ability to win with speed and exceptional quickness in tight spaces. He’s a dynamic player who can wreck a game and has shown improvement against the run. His highest upside comes as a pure pass rusher with his get-off and twitch.

Yahoo Sports (McDonald/Tice)​

This one is a pretty easy pairing. The Commanders are starved for edge rushers, especially ones who can win one-on-one and get after the quarterback. That’s exactly what Bailey brings to the table. He’s a dynamo off the edge and brings the heat play after play. Bailey’s lack of size can give him issues against the run, but he improved in that area during his lone season in Lubbock. He’ll immediately inject some juice into a front that needs it under new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones.

NBC Sports (Dvorchak)​

The only other contender for EDGE1, Bailey led the country in sacks (14.5) and pressure rate (20.2 percent). At 6’3/250, Bailey is notably undersized for an NFL EDGE, but his production speaks for itself. Dan Quinn gets a high-ceiling defender to rebuild his defense around.

The Ringer (Kelly)​

The Commanders defense ranked 26th in pressure rate last year (19.6 percent) and dead last in hurry rate (5.3 percent). It’s safe to say they need more juice from their edge defender group. Bailey provides just that: He’s twitchy and aggressive, bringing a no-holds-barred demeanor as a pass rusher.

Shades of Chop Robinson

Souped-up, highly disruptive defender who creates anarchy in the backfield.

SBNation (Schofield)​

The Washington Commanders need some help along the defensive front.

Enter David Bailey.

Bailey helped turn the Red Raiders into one of college football’s best defenses this past season, and was one of the players mentioned on Bruce Feldman’s annual “Freaks” list heading into last year. He might need to round out his toolkit as a pass rusher, but his athleticism and burst is a great starting point.

Here is a good look at those traits:

To be clear – David Bailey (EDGE #31) has that upfield burst that you just can't teach.

He's able to pair it with some nasty inside counters.

But again, more splashy than consistent (But the splashes are real good) pic.twitter.com/hZO4OUMnGW

— Cole Jackson (@ColeJacksonFB) February 6, 2026

San Diego Union~Tribune (Brown)​

The Commanders’ biggest problem this season was keeping Jayden Daniels healthy. Their second biggest problem was an ineffective defense. They need more playmakers at all three levels. Bailey tied for first in the FBS with 14½ sacks, and was second with 19½ tackles for loss. He has rare speed for someone who is 6-3, 250, having hit 22.16 mph — he’s No. 43 on Bruce Feldman’s 2025 “Freaks List.” There’s still work to do, but the Stanford transfer also improved as a run defender during his one season with the Red Raiders. Top needs: Edge, LB, CB

Pro Football Focus (Chadwick)​

The Commanders have fielded one of the NFL’s six lowest-graded defenses in each of the past three seasons. Washington addresses that by drafting Bailey, college football’s highest-graded defender this past season (93.3). He led college football in PFF pass-rush grade in each of the past two seasons at Texas Tech and Stanford.

USA Today (Ostly)​

Washington needs to get younger on defense, especially up front. Bailey was the most productive edge rusher in college football in 2025 and would be an immediate starter off the edge. He may have some concerns in run defense but that’s well worth the pass rush boost he’ll give this unit.

The Draft Network (Melo)​

Dan Quinn has hired Daronte Jones to help fix the Commanders’ defense. A pass rusher like David Bailey would go a long way. Bailey possesses the speed and general athleticism needed to develop into a nightmare for the opposition.

Pro Football Network (Aaron)​

With edge rushers flying off the board, a second straight Miami Hurricane comes off next. The Commanders’ defense ranked No. 30, according to PFSN’s Defensive Impact rankings, no help to their battered pass rush unit.

Bain Jr.’s explosive first step and violent hand usage make him an instant-impact player. His motor jumps off the screen, and given head coach Dan Quinn’s affinity for edge rushers, this could be the pick come late April.

Pro Football Network (Infante)​

Let’s face it: 2025 was a disaster of a season for the Washington Commanders. Injuries flooded their roster, but they also exposed their lack of developing young talent outside of injured quarterback Jayden Daniels. They have a serious chance in the 2026 NFL Draft to give their roster a much-needed youth infusion, especially in the trenches.

David Bailey is pass-rushing lightning in a bottle, and he deserves to be selected early in Round 1 in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft.

He’s a little undersized but brings impressive first-step acceleration, flexibility turning the corner, and an advanced understanding of how to use his hands to exploit the weaknesses of whichever offensive tackle he’s going up against.

Round 3: Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana

Omar Cooper Jr. is an impressive wide receiver with strong ball skills, coordination, and strong hands. If he continues to develop as a route runner, taking him in Round 3 could be very good value.

Touchdown Wire (Petry)​

Ruben Bain Jr. looked great in the National Championship game against Indiana. He had one sack and 2.5 tackles for a loss. The Commanders have a good offense, but could definitely use more sacks on opposing quarterbacks. Bain Jr. is your man for that.

Last Word on Sports (Farbolin)​

Washington suffered a major regression in 2025, largely due to a lackluster defense. The Commanders acquire a premier pass rusher in David Bailey. Bailey is a refined pass rusher who racked up 14.5 sacks in 2025. His first step is explosive, and he uses an array of pass-rush moves to beat offensive tackles.

Bleacher Report (Sobleski)​

The Washington Commanders finished dead-last in total defense this past season. The poor performance on that side of the ball had as much to do with the team’s massively disappointing season as Jayden Daniels’ injuries.

A season earlier, the Commanders’ defense ranked 13th overall on the way to an NFC Championship Game appearance. Obviously, a massive overhaul is necessary after what Washington fielded in 2025, starting with a pass rush that lacks punch.

Texas Tech’s David Bailey is coming off a season in which his 14.5 sacks tied for the most in the nation.

“At this point last year, the Commanders were expected to address their pass-rush issue,” Holder said. “However, free agency and the draft went by and their only significant addition came courtesy of signing a 36-year-old Von Miller right before training camp. In this scenario, Washington lands arguably the best pure pass-rusher in the draft as Bailey has a deep bag of moves that he can win with to solve one of the team’s biggest problems.”

A to Z Sports​

The Commanders’ defense was on it’s last legs in 2024, and that unit completely fell apart in 2025. Regression from key players like Mike Sainristil and Bobby Wagner didn’t help, but this team needs a pass rush. Bailey is arguably the best pure pass rusher in this class and his college resume proves that. Dan Quinn has done his best work when he can rush with four, and Bailey presents that opportunity.

Round 3: Jadarian Price, RB, Notre Dame

A to Z Sports (Schulte)​

The Commanders’ pass rush needs a big boost to make opposing QBs less comfortable. Texas Tech’s David Bailey is in the conversation to be the top EDGE taken in the class, and if he’s on the board at seven for the Commanders, I think it should be a no-brainer selection.

Round 3: Genesis Smith, S, Arizona

EDGE David Bailey

Consensus will likely push Bailey into 1st Round and I understand why
Yet on tape, the lack of true dominance bother me a bit
He's a solid, well-rounded EDGE, that still need to work on some aspect of his game to become a real difference maker

2nd Rnd Talent pic.twitter.com/OrbVc0SGIi

— Rayane M (@RayaneScout) February 2, 2026

NFL Mocks (Basile-vaughan)​

The Commanders took a huge step back in 2025 but can take a huge step forward with a solid draft in 2026. One of the top areas of need will be at edge rusher. With Ruben Bain off the board, they select Texas Tech’s David Bailey who was just as impactful if not more impactful in 2025. In leading the nation in sacks with 14.5, Bailey showcased an ability to create consistent pressure on the quarterback while making game-changing type plays when he is not able to get home on the quarterback. The Commanders have been missing that type of production and Bailey fulfill that hunger as a high-level defender coming off the edge.

Fantasy Pros (Janvrin)​

David Bailey may be a bit undersized for a traditional EDGE rusher, but you can’t argue with the production: 81 pressures and 14.5 sacks. He’s one of the best athletes in this class.

TWSN (Fulmer)​

Bailey has some character concerns, but there’s no denying his talent. If the Commanders feel comfortable with him in the interview process, then they could possibly add the best pure pass rusher in the draft.

Andy NFL​

This is a slam dunk for the Commanders in my eyes. For a defense that could certainly use more explosion and production off the edge, Bailey checks the boxes. Coming off of a 14.5 sack season for the Red Raiders it wouldn’t surprise me at all if he comes off the board much earlier.

USA Today (Middlehurst-Schwartz)​

---

Rueben Bain, EDGE, Miami​

Last Man Standig​

Alternate path: Trade down, Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, receiver

Explainer: Washington’s list of roster needs is uncomfortably long for a team one year removed from the NFC Championship game. That’s why trading down is a top consideration for a team with only two top-100 selections.

This is one team where the offseason transactional calendar must be mentioned. Spending heavily on the defensive line in free agency could open GM Adam Peters to take a needed receiver opposite Terry McLaurin or a back-7 playmaker in Downs — or tack on Bain regardless.

Teams can never have enough pass rushers or difference-makers up front. What the 6-foot-4, 270-pounder lacks in arm length he makes up for with tremendous power and disruptive abilities, as displayed during an impressive showing during the college football playoffs.

The McShay Report​

Bobby Wagner is 35 and set to hit free agency in March, so LB Sonny Styles would be in play here. However, Bain is an impact player at a position of higher value. And the Commanders need to get younger and more explosive at edge, with Von Miller (entering his age-37 season), Preston Smith (age-33 season), and Jacob Martin (age-31 season) making up an experienced but older group.

Fox Sports (Brooks)​

Head coach Dan Quinn’s success with similar power rushers (SEE: Dante Fowler) could lead the Commanders to take a chance on Bain despite his lack of ideal physical traits. The Miami standout’s energy and effort overwhelm opponents, unable to match his intensity between the lines.

Walter Football (Campbell)​

Washington needs some edge rush youth.

Bain had 54 tackles, 9.5 sacks, an interception, and a forced fumble. Bain had an excellent freshman season for Miami, totaling 7.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, and 44 tackles. At the point of attack, Bain (6-3, 275) is strong and violent. He is tough to set the edge in the ground game, and Bain battles hard on every snap with relentless effort. In the pass rush, he shows some quickness and power, but some team sources feel that Bain is a tweener tackle/end. Bain was injured to start 2024 and didn’t debut until early October. He totaled 23 tackles with 3.5 sacks.

Round 3: Antonio Williams, WR, Clemson

Washington could use more receiving weapons for Jayden Daniels.

Williams had 55 receptions for 604 yards and four touchdowns. Williams flashed playmaking ability for the Tigers in 2024 with 75 catches for 904 yards and 11 touchdowns. Williams (5-11, 190) has enough size and some natural talent as a route-runner.

Essentially Sports (Pauline)​

With all these offensive players flying off the board, the Washington Commanders sprint to the podium to select Rueben Bain. The Miami defensive end is the best pass rusher in the class, but I also wouldn’t be surprised to see David Bailey here if he tests better than Bain in the pre-draft process. Either way, they get a game-changing defensive end at No. 7.

Draft Wire (Popejoy)​

We love Bain and he is poised to be a Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate from Day One on a Commanders defense that needs help.

Bears Wire (Pendleton)​

One pick after his teammate, Rueben Bain falls to the Commanders and what a selection it would be for head coach Dan Quinn. Washington’s defense needs some youth on their defense, a unit that finished middle of the pack for sacks this past year. Bain has a knack for pressuring the quarterback and would be a perfect fit in Quinn’s defense.

Sharp Football Analysis (McCrystal)​

Fantasy Life (Freedman)​

Draft Countdown (Bosarge)​

---

Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn​

NFL.com (Zierlein)​

Faulk has impressive size, can play in odd or even fronts and is still filling out his frame. The upside trumps the unremarkable 2025 production.

Vikings Wire (Burroughs)​

---

T.J. Parker, EDGE, Clemson​

CBS Sports (Wilson)​

Parker is an explosive, high-motor edge rusher with the juice to both collapse pockets with a bull rush and the bend to win around the corner. He’s stout and disciplined against the run, from setting the edge, to blowing up plays in the backfield with his quickness. He shows surprising versatility, with the athleticism to drop into coverage from wide alignments and disrupt passing lanes.

---

Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State​

ESPN (Miller)​

There might be criticism of a team using a top-10 pick on a safety, but this draft class lacks a ton of elite top-end talent at the premium positions. And Commanders coach Dan Quinn needs to tighten up a defense that allowed a league-worst 384.0 yards per game. Downs is a difference-maker in the mold of Derwin James Jr. or Kyle Hamilton who can dictate what an offense is able to do but also be a matchup problem in multiple alignments.

NFL.com (Reuter)​

The Commanders take the best player on the board to be a long-term pillar of their defense. Downs can lead the squad from the back end and insert himself into plays around the box, thanks to his elite instincts.

Round 3: Logan Fano, EDGE, Utah

Pro Football Focus (Wasserman)​

The Commanders need defensive playmakers, and Caleb Downs fits that profile. He currently sits atop PFF’s Big Board after earning a PFF grade of at least 85.0 in each of his three collegiate seasons while helping lead Alabama and Ohio State to the College Football Playoff. Downs’ instincts and consistency would provide an immediate boost to Washington’s secondary.

The Draft Network (Sanchez)​

The perception is that the Washington Commanders severely underperformed compared to expectations. But in my opinion, the Commanders’ roster deficiencies really showed during the 2026 season. One of those deficiencies is the secondary. So while the Commanders could address a need on offense, I think they go defense and draft do-it-all defender Caleb Downs to help boost this secondary.

Pro Football Network (Randall)​

Per NextGen Stats, the Commanders were (slightly) bottom-half in pressure and sack percentage this season, and in get-off time. Texas Tech EDGE David Bailey would unquestionably elevate their efforts in getting after the quarterback, so such a selection would not surprise me.

It comes down to the belief that the combination of Downs and a pass rusher later is superior to the duo of Bailey and a safety later, if ever so slightly. Downs is a tone setter and a top-three football player in this draft class, sans any discussion regarding positional value. He will prove impactful for an extended period of time.

Round 2: Joshua Josephs, EDGE, Tennessee

The Commanders have waited patiently since their last pick. They’re rewarded with “a quality rotational presence with serviceable starting appeal in odd-front schemes, but he needs to improve his power element before he can reach his ceiling as a quality two-phase starter.” Josephs will look to boost a mostly bland edge-rushing group.

FanSided (Williams)​

Draft Notes: Two-time unanimous All-American and three-time All-Conference; top-tier athlete with unreal versatility; return potential on special teams

In previous mock drafts, I’ve been giving the Commanders a young shot in the arm in terms of an edge rusher. While I still wouldn’t hate that, the thought of a team that needs high-end youth on defense passing on Caleb Downs feels strange. Downs is a do-it-all playmaker, literally, on the back end. He also feels like the type of player that Dan Quinn will be completely enamored with in Washington.

USA Today (Camenker)​

Copilot is continuing the trend outlined by many of giving the Commanders a defensive player. However, it chose to give Styles to the team over a player like Rueben Bain Jr. or Caleb Downs. Why? The chatbot expressed confidence that Styles would be a three-down linebacker who could change the complexion of Washington’s defense.

Vikings Wire (Harbaugh)​

Dan Quinn is facing a critical year in 2026, and he will want his defense firing on all cylinders. Caleb Downs can be installed as both a starter and leader in his defense as the team looks to have that side of the ball complement the explosive offense they have with Jayden Daniels.

Saturday Blitz (Rome)​

Dan Quinn is going to need a bounce-back season in 2026, otherwise he could find himself looking for a new job. Quinn’s veteran-heavy defense struggled this season, and he needs to find difference-makers this offseason. Caleb Downs could become the ultimate chess piece for this defense with an ability to line up all over the field, which would help mask this defense’s issues.

NFL Trade Rumors (Woodie)​

This is probably where Downs’ range begins. The Commanders had the worst secondary in the league last year and Downs is a blue-chip prospect with insane college production. He can play multiple positions and would immediately upgrade both phases of Washington’s defense.

Clutch Points (Crean)​

The best pound-for-pound player in this draft won’t slip out of the top 10 as safety Caleb Downs goes to the Commanders in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft. Downs is an all-around playmaker who will give some Washington fans flashbacks to the late, great Sean Taylor. Yes, drafting a safety this high is a risky proposition, but Downs is a special player, and adding a young superstar to the back end of the defense will help Dan Quinn get the D back where it needs to be

Fantasy Sports on SI (Morales-Smith)​

Many people believe that Downs is the best defensive player in this draft. Washington desperately needs help in their secondary and this is a great start.

Fantasy Pros (Kamlowsky)​

Caleb Downs is the best safety prospect in the draft, and while I know safeties rarely go in the top 10, he is one of the better ones to come out in the last decade.

Downs gives Washington a quarterback in the secondary, as he will be able to get them into coverages immediately. He is one of the most technically sound defenders in the draft and should help a unit that gave up the fifth-most passing yards per game in 2025.

Cat Scratch Reader (Belton)​

The Commanders defense combined with injury issues for Jayden Daniels to create a very disappointing season in Washington. Dan Quinn will likely want to add some young targets for Daniels, but this feels a little expensive for the players available, especially considering just how good Downs is. It’s a premium price for a safety, but Downs will be worth it.

Bleacher Nation (Rooney)​

Safety might not be considered a premier position, but Caleb Downs is an elite defender and playmaker on that side of the football. I think the Commanders would have a hard time passing on him if this is how the board shook out.

Bears Wire (Parise)​

The Washington Commanders improve their defense with Caleb Downs, who can be considered the best overall player in the draft, depending on who you ask.

Panthers Wire (Rizzuti)​

Head coach Dan Quinn gets his hands on one heck of a chess piece in Downs.

While taking a safety this high isn’t considered the best bit of business, this two-time unanimous All-American can break the mold—similarly to Baltimore Ravens star Kyle Hamilton.

Dynasty Nerds (Bishop)​

One of the few blue chip prospects in this class, Caleb Downs has future All-Pro written all over him. The Commanders could use safety help. In 2025, they gave up 242.5 passing yards per game, which ranked 28th in the NFL. Safeties traditionally fall farther than they should in the NFL Draft, but I don’t think the NFL will make the same mistake with Downs after seeing the impact that a stud safety like Nick Emmanwori is having on the Seahawks defense on the way to a potential Super Bowl.

Downs is special. He is able to do it all. He can be a sideline to sideline ballhawk. Downs can come closer to the line and play an imposing nickel. He tackles well. Downs is explosive as a blitzer. His instincts are extremely impressive, often diagnosing a play before it develops. In the modern NFL, defensive coordinators are getting better and better at disguising coverages, but it helps to have versatile defenders. Downs would be the perfect fit to be the captain of the new age Commanders defense.

Roster Watch (Carpentier)​

Draft Countdown (Menendez)​

Mock Draft Database​

Tankathon​

---

Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU​

Fox Sports (Klatt)​

The Commanders gave up the most passing yards in the league last season, so they have to address that side of the ball. Delane’s my top corner in this draft. So, a natural fit here.

Bleeding Green Nation (Natan)​

The Commanders took a big step back this year due to their roster being mostly old guys. Now Dan Quinn can get some young defenders to hold down to the perimeters of the secondary.

---

Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State​

NFL.com (Jeremiah)​

Styles reminds me of Fred Warner, who was drafted by the 49ers when current Commanders GM Adam Peters was an executive in San Francisco’s front office. Keep in mind that Bobby Wagner is 35 and headed for free agency.

CBS Sports (Podell)​

Styles is the perfect modern inside linebacker. He played his first two seasons at Ohio State as a safety before transitioning to linebacker, so he comes ready to roll in pass coverage. Styles is able to remain in range of slot receivers in the seam, and he can go step for step with tight ends from sideline to sideline. His wingspan allows him to have nice range as a tackler in the run and pass games. Styles blitzes with a jetpack attached to his back, easily steamrolling running backs attempting to pick him up in pass protection. Styles is a slam-dunk replacement for an aging Bobby Wagner, who is headed for free agency.

NBC Sports (Rogers)​

With his size, range and three-down ability, Styles has some of the best tape of any prospect in this draft. The speed he would bring to the middle of the field would help get Dan Quinn’s unit back on track.

Dallas Morning News (Hoyt)​

This may be a little high for a linebacker, but the Commanders decide to add some youth to their front seven. Styles has the look of a linebacker who could play a long time at a high level.

The Draft Network (Eisner)​

Positional value be damned… oh wait, I used that line already. Dan Quinn’s defense is in serious need of reinforcements, and Sonny Styles brings legitimate high-end potential to the second level. Styles offers a rare blend of energy, versatility, and pass-rush ability, giving Washington a true chess piece on defense. His experience wearing the green dot at Ohio State speaks volumes about his leadership, communication skills, and football IQ—traits that should allow him to step in as an instant starter for the Commanders. While there’s understandable concern about the positional and financial value of drafting a linebacker this high, roster building ultimately comes down to adding good football players. Styles checks every box and has the upside to become a cornerstone of Quinn’s defense.

NFL Spin Zone (Scataglia)​

Sonny Styles is inside the top-10 in our latest mock draft and heads to Washington, a team in dire need of talent on both sides of the ball.

Chiefs on SI (Feinberg)​

The Commanders are getting old at linebacker, and there is a serious need to inject youth at the position. What better way to succeed Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu than selecting arguably the best pure linebacker in the draft? Styles has a missed tackle rate of zero percent before the quarterfinals game against Miami, brings a former safety background to the field, and is a genius at the position.

Blogging the Boys (Martin)​

Bobby Wagner out, Sonny Styles in? The Commanders defense was pretty bad last year and Styles can step in as a rookie and immediately upgrade things. He’s a foundational piece they can build around for years to come.

---

Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State​

Pro Football Focus (Sikkema)​

Reese doesn’t have a ton of true coverage drops on his 2025 tape, but as a heat-seeking missile type of second-level defender, he can be a very impactful player. The Commanders need more off- and on-ball linebacker production, something with which Reese can help. He played 286 snaps in the box as an off-ball backer and 327 as an on-ball edge last season.

Pro Football Network (Cummings)​

Arvell Reese is still very much a projection as a pass rusher, but the tools are such that it’s a comfortable projection to make. At his peak, he can be a game-wrecker. That’s upside the Commanders need to invest in if he’s there at the No. 7 overall pick.

At an incredibly lean and compact 6’4″, 243 pounds, with hyper-elite explosiveness, short-area correction, and cornering ability, Reese has the athletic tools to torture opposing blockers, as well as the raw, unhinged power to stack-and-shed, reverse run game displacement, and plow through shoulders with bull-rushes and long-arms.

Round 3: Skyler Bell, WR, UConn

Skyler Bell was a dominant producer in 2025; with 10″ mitts at 5’11”, 187 pounds, he’s a strong-handed pass-catcher with energized, explosive athleticism and high-end separation ability from all alignments.

Round 5: VJ Payne, SAF, Kansas State

Round 6: Dan Villari, TE, Syracuse

Round 6: Tyreak Sapp, EDGE, Florida

Round 7: Nicholas Singleton, RB, Penn State

Bleacher Report (Knox)​

---

Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame​

NFL.com (Parr)​

There might not be a better way to help Jayden Daniels bounce back from a rough Year 2. With Love joining the 2024 Offensive Rookie of the Year in the Commanders’ backfield, Washington’s run game would be dizzying to defend.

NFL Spin Zone (Bedinger)​

The Commanders would probably prefer to get their hands on David Bailey or Rueben Bain here in the 1st round, but Jeremiyah Love wouldn’t be a bad consolation for them. The running back position has some nice secondary types of players right now for new offensive coordinator David Blough, but having a featured weapon like Love would be huge.

Blough comes from Detroit where he saw the value of having a back who has the explosiveness and three-down abilities of someone like Love, and how much of a game-changer that can be for an offense overall. The Commanders have plenty of other needs to look at addressing, but someone like Love is a game-changing weapon that can cause you to reevaluate your draft plan overall.

It would be huge for Jayden Daniels to have a playmaker like this to share the load, and Blough could really build something special with those two in the backfield.

Round 3: Joshua Josephs, EDGE, Tennessee

Roto Baller (Gregory)​

We are sticking with Love here, since the best prospect in the class can help Jayden Daniels stay healthy and ascend. Remember, Commanders GM Adam Peters was part of the 49ers front office that traded for Christian McCaffrey.

Walter Football​

Jacory Croskey-Merritt was a fun story because he liked to be called Bill for some reason, but the Redskins need to make sure that Jayden Daniels can lean on a potent rushing attack so that he’s not taking too many hits.

Jeremiyah Love is a powerful, downhill runner with plus receiving ability.

Round 3: Keyron Crawford, DE, Auburn

The Redskins struggled to get to the quarterback last year, so they’ll need to find some new pass rushers.

Keyron Crawford is a raw pass rusher who had decent production at Auburn.

---

Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State​

ESPN (Yates)​

The Commanders have made it clear that they need to get younger on defense, so a pass rusher could be tempting here. But they can’t overlook their need for another receiver opposite Terry McLaurin. Tate had a fantastic 2025 season and is one of most pro-ready prospects in the class. He’s a terrific route runner who makes difficult catches look routine with his awesome hands and body control. Tate averaged more than 17 yards per catch in 2025 and had at least one 40-plus-yard catch in six games. That sort of field-stretching speed and tracking ability could make him an ideal option for quarterback Jayden Daniels.

Fox Sports (Rang)​

No one needs to remind Washington head coach Dan Quinn about the importance of protecting quarterback Jayden Daniels, and the best way of doing that with this pick might be to bolster a receiving corps that, frankly, didn’t live up to expectations. Big and smooth, Tate would add a dynamic downfield presence to add some vitality to a group of pass-catchers overly reliant on 30-year-old Terry McLaurin as Deebo Samuel and Zach Ertz head to free agency.

CBS Sports (Renner)​

The Commanders need an injection of youth into their aging receiving corps. We saw how much their downfield passing attack suffered when Terry McLaurin was out of the lineup last season. Tate is the best big-play threat in the class with the kind of ball skills that pair perfectly with Jayden Daniels’ elite deep ball.

The Big Lead (Risdon)​

It might be a little too convenient to plug in the well-heeled Tate for aging vet, and fellow Buckeye alum, Terry McLaurin, but watching the Washington offense without an injured McLaurin proved the dire need for Tate’s skills.

---

Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State​

Sporting News (Iyer)​

The Commanders need to reboot at wide receiver away from field-stretching No. 1 Terry McLaurin. Tyson is a smooth good-hands route-runner who uses his frame well to get open all over the field through the red zone.

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/mock-draf...s-defense-again-for-the-washington-commanders

 

[Washington Commanders]

Tress Way is (again) signed on a seldom used type of contract that saves the Commanders over $1.5m in cap space in ‘26

MADRID, SPAIN - NOVEMBER 14: Tress Way of Washington Commanders reacts at the team press conference after a training session ahead of the NFL 2025 game against Miami Dolphins at Ciudad Deportiva del Real Madrid on November 14, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Over the Cap has just updated its database with Tress Way’s contract details, and if it looks as if the math doesn’t work, there’s a good reason.

Tress Way has a contract that is in compliance with a new-ish benefit that was introduced with the 2020 Collective Bargaining Agreement called a 4-Year Qualifying Contract.

Here’s a look at the structure of his deal:

As you can see, the Commanders All Pro punter (and ‘all world’ holder for field goals and PATs) will actually be paid an almost-fully-guaranteed $3.037m for the 2026 season, but he will count only $1.487m towards the salary cap.

That sounds like a win for Tress and a win for the team.

I wrote about the 4-year Qualifying Contract last year, but just in case you’ve lost your notes from that article, here’s the explanation of how it works:

4-year qualifying contract (4YQC)​

Who qualifies?​

A player with four or more Credited Seasons whose contract with a Club has expired after four or more years of continuous, uninterrupted service with that Club (i.e., the player must have been under contract to that Club and on that Club’s 90-player roster for the immediately prior four or more consecutive League Years without interruption prior to the contract’s expiration).

What is the required contract structure?​

The Player Contract that covers only a single League Year and contains a Paragraph 5 Salary for up to $1.55 million [in 2026 & 2027] more than the applicable minimum Active/Inactive List Salary.

How many 4YQCs can a team have?​

In any League Year, a Club may sign a maximum of two 4-Year Qualifying Players to Four-Year Qualifying Contracts; provided, however, that the combined amount by which the players’ respective Paragraph 5 Salaries may exceed the players’ respective minimum Active/Inactive List salaries or, in the case of a split contract, the players’ respective minimum nonActive/Inactive List salaries, shall be limited to a total of $1.55 million [in 2026 & 2027].

It appears that the Commanders are only applying the 4YQC benefit to Tress Way’s contract this year. I don’t think any other player actually qualifies at the moment (though Jeremy Reaves may qualify in 2027 if he is still on the roster and doesn’t garner a significant pay raise).

Because Tress Way has been with the Commanders for at least four continuous uninterrupted seasons (this is his 13th season in Washington) and the value of his contract is not more than $1.55m more than the vet minimum for a player with 12 accrued seasons, his cap number is just $1.487m for the 2026 season.

This brings up a couple of salient points:

1. Way’s extension is — like last year — for only one year because that is a requirement of this benefit. He now costs not much more than a punter on a rookie contract from a cap standpoint. This CBA-defined benefit allows teams like Washington to reward long-serving, relatively low-cost veterans.
2. I suspect that we can expect the team to do this again next season (and for as long as Tress Way continues to be the valuable holder & punter that he is). This is a seldom-used tool for cap management that rewards roster stability.

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/washingto...t-saves-the-commanders-over-1-5m-in-cap-space

 

[Washington Commanders]

Is Derrick Moore a Fit for the Commanders’ New-Look Defense?

COLLEGE PARK, MARYLAND - NOVEMBER 22, 2025: Derrick Moore #8 of the Michigan Wolverines rushes the line of scrimmage during the second half against the Maryland Terrapins at SECU Stadium on November 22, 2025 in College Park, Maryland. (Photo by Chris Bernacchi/Diamond Images via Getty Images) | Diamond Images/Getty Images

Derrick Moore, DE
School: Michigan | Conference: Big Ten
College Experience: Senior | Age: 23
Height / Weight: 6’3” / 254 lbs
Projected Draft Status: 2nd-3rd Round
Player Comparison: Derick Hall

College Statistics​

Tackles	Def Interceptions	Fumbles
Season	Team	Conf	Class	Pos	G	Solo	Ast	Comb	TFL	Sk	Int	Yds	IntTD	PD	FR	Yds	FRTD	FF	Awards
2022*	Michigan	Big Ten	FR	DE	14	7	1	8	2.0	2.0	0	0	0	1	0	0	0	0
2023*	Michigan	Big Ten	SO	DE	15	20	14	34	6.0	5.0	0	0	0	2	1	0	1	1
2024*	Michigan	Big Ten	JR	DE	12	16	7	23	6.0	4.0	0	0	0	2	1	0	0	0
2025*	Michigan	Big Ten	SR	DE	12	19	11	30	10.5	10.0	0	0	0	3	1	0	0	2
Career	53	62	33	95	24.5	21.0	0	0	0	8	3	0	1	3

Defense & Fumbles Table

Provided by CFB at Sports Reference: View Original Table
Generated 2/12/2026.

Player Overview​

Derrick Moore looks to be the next Michigan edge defender to make it to the NFL following in the footsteps of Kwity Paye, Aidan Hutchinson, and Josaiah Stewart. Moore, a native of Baltimore, played at St. Frances Academy where he helped their football team to numerous winning seasons despite losing his junior year to the pandemic. After a senior season where Moore had 55 tackles, 24 for a loss, and 12 sacks, he was named Maryland Gatorade Player of the Year and MVP of the Under Armour All-American Bowl. The four-star prospect chose Michigan over the likes of Ohio State, Penn State, Notre Dame, Alabama, and Georgia.

Moore got on the field as a true freshman, seeing action in all 14 games and flashing starting ability. This earned him more playing time as a sophomore. On the way to the National Championship, Moore was named All-Big Ten honorable mention. He would earn that distinction again as a Junior. In his final year in Ann Arbor where he led the Wolverines in sacks and tackles for a loss, Moore was named first team All-Big Ten.

Strengths​

• Solidly built prospect with 34” arms
• Extremely quick off the snap with good straight-line speed
• Effective outside speed rush with inside counters
• Can convert speed to power from wide alignments
• Hands are accurate and well-timed, flashing good swipes and rip moves
• High-level short-area quickness makes him dangerous running stunts
• Rarely misses a tackle

Weaknesses​

• Can struggle maintaining the point of attack in the run game
• Can rely too much on speed rushes to the outside to beat tackles
• Needs to develop more moves and counters to win against NFL blockers
• Not many instances of him dropping into coverage

Let’s See His Work​

Derrick Moore: 92.4 Pass Rush Grade Last Season

1st Among ALL Defensive Players in the Big Ten https://t.co/P3nokfY5jD pic.twitter.com/JRUvb3cVIA

— PFF College (@PFF_College) January 28, 2026

We got an opportunity to chop it up with Michigan Edge Derrick Moore down at the senior bowl. He had a great week and boosted his draft stock with a strong performance down in Mobile! Sky is the limit! #thedraftstartsinmobile pic.twitter.com/AzjZQmrAio

— 4th and JAWN (@4thandJawn) February 1, 2026

Sources: The Commanders met with the following players at the Senior Bowl:

Max Llewellyn, DE/Edge, Iowa
LT Overton, DE/Edge, Alabama
Derrick Moore, DE/Edge, Michigan
Romello Height, DE/Edge, Texas Tech
Logan Fano, DE/Edge, Utah
TJ Parker, DE/Edge, Clemson
Gabe Jacas, DE/Edge,…

— The Podfather (@TheBurgundyZone) February 2, 2026

How He Fits on the Commanders​

The hiring of Daronte Jones to be the Commanders’ defensive coordinator hopefully means changes that lead to significant improvement. One change we might see is more 3-4 defensive alignments. Do the Commanders have the personnel for this scheme? Many of the Commanders’ edge defenders are best suited for playing 4-3 defensive end. Players like Dorance Armstrong, Javontae Jean-Baptiste, and Jacob Martin – who is a free agent – may be able to play this role, but could struggle with some of the responsibilities of a 3-4 end like dropping into coverage or playing in space. If a 3-4 scheme will be a more prominent part of the defense, they will need to find an OLB.

Although Derrick Moore played 4-3 defensive end at Michigan, he has a lot of the qualities of a 3-4 OLB. His rushes from wide alignments where he can win with speed or by converting his speed are qualities you often see from 3-4 OLBs. With few plays where he drops into coverage, he’ll have to show aptitude dropping into coverage and improve his strength in the run game. Even if he doesn’t, Moore still has what teams are looking for at 4-3 defensive end. If the defense will be featuring many different looks, Moore could be a valuable player for the Commanders. With an impressive week at the Senior Bowl, the question is whether Moore will be available at the Commanders’ pick in the third round. If he is, Washington should strongly consider adding him to the team.

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/nfl-draft...ore-a-fit-for-the-commanders-new-look-defense

 

[Washington Commanders]

Daily Slop: 14 Feb 26 – Commanders appear to still be adding to the coaching staff

BATON ROUGE, LA - OCTOBER 25: Safeties coach Jake Olsen of the LSU Tigers in action against the Texas A&M Aggies at Tiger Stadium on October 25, 2025 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. (Photo by Gus Stark/LSU/University Images via Getty Images)

Commanders links​

Articles​

Commanders Roundtable

Commanders working to hire LSU assistant to 2026 defensive staff​

Pete Nakos of On3 reported on Friday evening that the Commanders are working to hire LSU safeties coach Jake Olsen to the staff. What role he would join with the Commanders is unclear with Tommy Donatell the current safeties coach and William Gay serving as cornerbacks coach, but he’d be another piece to a defensive staff looking to turn the page from an abysmal season under Joe Whitt Jr.

Olsen [would become] the second college coach to join the Commanders staff this offseason after naming former USC co-defensive coordinator and defensive line coach Eric Henderson as Washington’s new defensive line coach in 2026.

Mic’d up video linked here. Within 30 seconds he says he’s a “teacher first” and has an education background. Sounds familiar https://t.co/sNpvhoXzXc

— Mark Bullock (@MarkBullockNFL) February 13, 2026

---

Riggo’s Rag

What role will Johnny Newton have under Daronte Jones?​

There has been some well-founded speculation that Jones may want to play more 3-4 fronts. At 6-foot-2 and 295 pounds, Newton is a B-gap interior lineman. There will be room for him in a 3-4, but it is far from ideal.

[Johnny] Newton does not have the length to play outside, nor does he seem to have the bulk to play over center. Even in college, some scouts questioned whether his undersized frame would hold up against NFL guards. Some argued that he needed to line up next to a much bigger player in order to be most effective.

That’s one of the reasons the Los Angeles Rams signed Poona Ford to play next to Kobie Turner this year. He is the same size as Newton and has been very good playing next to stouter tackles.

That may be why Peters overpaid for the physically imposing Javon Kinlaw last year. On paper, Kinlaw and Newton make some sense. On the field, it has not worked out.

Kinlaw can play either over center or at end in a base 3-4, but Newton does not have an obvious home. In that very promising Dallas game, he lined up in the B-gap on two-thirds of his snaps. That tracks with his entire career in Washington.

Under a new defensive alignment, that spot might no longer be available. That means Newton will have to find a new role to continue his slow climb toward becoming the player Washington thought it was getting in 2024.

---

Commanders Wire

Pressure is on Commanders to fix the defense​

[T]he Commanders’ defense wasn’t good in 2024. In 2025, it was abysmal. They couldn’t tackle, rush the passer, stop the run, or limit big plays. It was a mess, and head coach Dan Quinn took over defensive play-calling from defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. ahead of Week 11.

The Commanders promoted David Blough to replace Kingsbury and hired Daronte Jones to replace Whitt. The offense has some excellent building blocks, led by quarterback Jayden Daniels, wide receiver Terry McLaurin and an ascending offensive line led by left tackle Laremy Tunsil.

There are fewer building blocks for the defense, which puts the onus on GM Adam Peters to significantly improve the talent on that side of the ball to aid Jones.

f Washington expects to return to contention, it needs a defense that can finish in at least the top 15 of most statistical categories, force some turnovers and get off the field on third downs. Far too often in recent years, Washington’s defense was the “get-right game” for struggling quarterbacks.

---

Podcasts & videos​

Talking HBCU Experience With Bill Croskey-Merritt & Rob McDaniel | Next Man Up​

---

Five thoughts: on being under center and the impact; NEED more explosive plays/players; on David Blough prepping for this role; unlocking more from Jayden Daniels. ⁦@ESPNRichmond⁩ https://t.co/uSUgjDFfou

— John Keim (@john_keim) February 13, 2026

---

Episode 1,260 – Guest: @LoganPaulsenNFL. Excellent breakdown of why the Commanders want Jayden Daniels under center more, pros/cons & much more. Logan was spewing .

Guest: @GregFinberg. Great analysis of the state of the Wizards' rebuild. It's working.https://t.co/sNAlF4YiNp

— Al Galdi (@AlGaldi) February 13, 2026

---

NFC East links​

D Magazine

The NFL Offseason Has Begun. Expect Jerry Jones and the Cowboys to Finally Meet the Moment​

Go ahead and roll your eyes at Jones’ proclamation that he wants to pass Kraft [as the owner with the most Lombardi trophies]. Dismiss it as hyperbole from an owner who’s constantly selling but has failed to deliver for 30 years and counting. This isn’t about setting a realistic goal. It’s about motivation for the 83-year-old patriarch.

Jones leads Kraft on several significant fronts. His franchise is worth more, a fixture atop the Forbes list as the NFL’s most valuable property for 19 consecutive years. Jones has a bust in the Hall of Fame, an honor that eluded Kraft 72 hours before the Seahawks manhandled his team in Super Bowl LX.

But Kraft, more than any other owner, has risen to prominence during the Cowboys’ long fallow period. He has doubled Jones’ Lombardi Trophy haul. The Patriots didn’t win Sunday. But the fact New England got back to the Super Bowl as quickly as it did after moving on from Tom Brady and Bill Belichick caught his attention.

[L]et’s focus on one tangible example that impacted the just-concluded season: free-agent spending. New England led the way in that category in 2025, sinking $192.9 million in guaranteed money into free agency. Seattle’s $101.5 million was good for fifth. Dallas ranked near the bottom of the league, doling out just $23.4 million in guaranteed money to free agents.

Jones has signaled he will dive into free agency with a financial fervor he hasn’t exhibited since he paid $50 million to add corner Brandon Carr 14 years ago. Will he increase his investment more than seven-fold to fall in line with what Kraft just spent? No. But he did tell reporters in San Francisco for the Super Bowl that he was prepared to “bust the budget.’’

The Cowboys will tag Pickens to prevent him from hitting the free agent market while it concentrates on outbidding suitors for free agents who will markedly upgrade the defense. Then Jones will come back and try to get something done with Pickens, the same way I intend to give my wife more than a cheesy card for Valentine’s Day if I know what’s good for me.

Doubts it will unfold this way are understandable. Jones has brought those on himself. But the first sign this offseason will be different came with the hiring of defensive coordinator Christian Parker from Philadelphia. The next will be what happens when free agency opens on March 11.

---

Discussion topics​

This is 2 weeks old, but I missed it when it was posted:

As you can tell, I’m pretty excited we got more uniform news (even if I’m exhausted from the weekend)

“The worst-kept secret in Washington” has its first official teaser, sort of

I recapped it all, including:
– The full timeline of all the Commanders uniforms news &… https://t.co/wQuREPjNNr pic.twitter.com/tViYqybv5q

— Zach Cohen (@ZachCohenFB) February 9, 2026

---

aBit o’Twitter​

PFT Chris Simms says that the #Commanders hiring first time play callers David Blough & Daronte Jones make “no sense”

(via:@NFLonNBC) pic.twitter.com/1ro4h5Stih

— brandon (@JayDanielsMVP) February 13, 2026

Smart from @Rosenbergradio on Washington's coaching staff: "The Giants went with Matt Nagy. I would a million times out of a million go with David Blough rather than a middle of the road coordinator…I would rather roll the dice and hope to stumble into the next Kyle Shanahan."

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) February 13, 2026

Why did Dan Quinn decide to move on from Kliff Kingsbury? Here's the Commanders HC's answer to Kevin Sheehan: pic.twitter.com/es5DoBM4cp

— The Team 980 (@team980) February 13, 2026

If you need an edge rusher, this is a good draft to double up. The depth of the class is impressive. I've got 10 guys worthy of a spot in top 50 players. There's another layer of traitsy players beyond that group.

— Daniel Jeremiah (@MoveTheSticks) February 13, 2026

@FieldYates

Could we really get an #NFLDraft 1st Round with only two quarterbacks selected? Where does the ESPN analyst have Alabama's Ty Simpson slotted more than two months out?#NFL pic.twitter.com/rVAVGKBSJL

— Rich Eisen Show (@RichEisenShow) February 13, 2026

Ian Rapoport on the #Commanders ahead of free agency: "it is an essential, important year for Washington. I wouldn't be surprised if there were some fireworks here"

: NFL pic.twitter.com/E9RKgKRtqG

— Commanders on Roundtable (@WSHRoundtable) February 14, 2026

From The Insiders on @NFLNetwork: Among the challenges the #Chiefs face this offseason, being more than $50M over the cap is a big one. pic.twitter.com/cySF7VPyqE

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 14, 2026

The NFL will kick off the 2026 season on a Wednesday.

This was expected, a league source clarified to me. With Labor Day falling on Sept. 7, the league can't host a Friday Week 1 game (due to the Sports Broadcasting Act). https://t.co/JtcPCE3KVu

— Jayna Bardahl (@Jaynabardahl) February 13, 2026

The final NFL ownership grades (from last year), since there won’t be another one: https://t.co/OhQ8KoTU6j pic.twitter.com/Wo5lhyWyvW

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) February 13, 2026

Got some tricks up his sleeve pic.twitter.com/VVvH4rIbMy

— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) February 13, 2026

---

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/daily-slo...pear-to-still-be-adding-to-the-coaching-staff

 

[Washington Commanders]

Why do Spotrac and Over the Cap report different available salary cap numbers?

LANDOVER, MARYLAND - SEPTEMBER 21: Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters looks on before the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Northwest Stadium on September 21, 2025 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images) | Getty Images

One of the irritating issues this time of year is that we read different numbers from article to article and tweet to tweet about cap space.

Some of that occurs because of different assumptions by the writers of those tweets and headlines — for example, one guy reports the current estimate while the next guy assumes that Marshon Lattimore will be released and Laremy Tunsil will sign an extension. That’s mildly irritating to readers, but at least it’s clear and understandable.

What can often be a bigger mystery is why the two popular public sources for salary cap information seem to report cap space numbers that differ by millions of dollars. How can it happen and which numbers can you trust?

Spotrac vs Over the Cap​

February is an ideal time to look at the differences between the two reporting services because the numbers right now are relatively uncluttered by guesses about a lot of things.

Still, when I looked at the two sites today, I see that Over the Cap shows the Commanders with 53 players currently under contract for a total of $258,079,456, while Spotrac has the team with 52 players totaling $247,030,857.

The difference between the two is $11,048,599.

That feels like a lot.

Deebo Samuel​

Well, the biggest difference is that Sportrac accounted for the voiding of Deebo Samuel’s contract on Friday while Over the Cap hasn’t done the data entry yet.

When OTC voids the contract, then it will look like this:

Okay, that looks better than an $11m variance, but it seems like $1.3m is still a lot of difference. What’s going on here?

Of the 52 players that both sites list on the roster, they agree on the 2026 cap charges for 38 of them. That leaves cap charges for 14 players that aren’t the same. That also seems like a lot.

Well, those 14 players break down into 3 groups.

What’s going on with those 14 players?​

Group One: Typos​

There is a $3 difference between the two sites for Jaylin Lane’s contract. OTC has an even $1,233,460 while Sportac has it as $1,233,463. One of them probably made a simple data entry error.

Same for Tyler Owens, who has a $1 difference that could be a typo or might be a rounding error.

The two errors net out to a $2 difference.

Two down, twelve to go.

Group Two: Per game roster bonus​

The major issue when it comes to reconciling the two sites is the handling of per game roster bonuses.

Spotrac simply includes the entire bonus in the projected cap cost, which is not in line with NFL salary cap rules for bonuses likely to be earned.

The CBA stipulates that bonuses are deemed likely to be earned if the player would have earned them last year.

Over the Cap applies this logic, and only includes the amount of dollars that would be expected to be paid to the player based on the number of games played in 2025.

This affects 10 players and ends up looking like this:

---

You can see that these 10 players have the variance between Over the Cap and Spotrac completely explained by the difference in treatment of per-game roster bonuses.

This accounts for $1,338,824 of the difference between our two sources.

That’s another ten down, with two to go.

Group Three: Estimated Proven Performance Escalator and “Other”​

Quan Martin

The CBA has a program called the Proven Performance Escalator (PPE) that rewards mid- and late-round draft picks who get a lot of playing time by boosting their pay in the 4th year of their contract.

Both Spotrac and OTC have estimated an increase in Quan Martin’s 4th year salary based on the PPE, but the estimated 4th year salary differs by about $107,000, with OTC projecting a base salary of $3.605m and Spotrac estimating it at $3.712m.

Jeremy Reaves

Over the Cap has $150,000 listed as “Other” for Jeremy Reaves; Sportrac doesn’t have it.

OTC offers no explanation for the cap charge so I don’t know what it is. It is a recent addition; it wasn’t listed on OTC when I reviewed Reavo’s contract in detail on June 25th last year. I imagine it is a bonus that has changed from ulikely to likely to be earned based on Reavo’s ‘25 stats. In any event, it is the reason for the $150k difference in Reavo’s contract calculations on the two sites.

---

And that’s it; the two sources are reconciled!​

---

You can see that what can appear to be puzzling differences between sources of salary cap information typically come down to simple explanations like data entry errors (Jaylin Lane & Tyler Owens), timing (Deebo’s voided contract), differing estimates (Quan Martin), minor contract details (Jeremy Reaves) and different treatment of CBA rules (Per Game Roster Bonuses).

A key thing to remember is that both Spotrac and Over the Cap are making a number of assumptions, educated guesses and estimations. There will always be differences between the two sources, but the NFL and NFLPA publicly update the actual cap space situation once each year, which allows both sources to ‘reset’ to the same number before differences start creeping in again.

The Commanders, right now, are estimated to have the 5th-most cap space in the NFL, which is quite a lot for a team with 52 players under contract. Adam Peters has plenty of ammunition for free agency, and the likelihood of getting his hands on another $18.5m by releasing Marshon Lattimore before the start of the new league year in mid-March.

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/washingto...report-different-available-salary-cap-numbers

 

[Washington Commanders]

The Cold, Hard Truth: Adam Peters Hasn’t Drafted Well

I don’t like to sugar-coat things. If something looks FANTASTIC, I like to point it out. If something looks BAD, I will bring that to the forefront.

In this series, “The Cold, Hard Truth”, I will give my analysis on various parts of the team in an effort to allow healthy discussions on the specific topics at hand.

---

The Commanders have missed on more top 100 draft picks than they have hit on​

Top 100 picks are very valuable in the NFL. In the last decade, over 70 percent of All-Pro first- and second-teamers were comprised of former top 100 draft picks. Now of course there are outliers, but as it stands, successful teams hit on the majority of their top 100 picks.

When Adam Peters arrived in Washington, he said during his opening press conference that he would build through the draft, and supplement through free agency. Now, it’s not for a lack of trying, as in his first two seasons as general manager he’s had eight top 100 draft picks. It’s what he’s done with those top 100 draft picks that leaves a bit of uncertainty.

---

2024 NFL Draft​

• RD1 #2: Jayden Daniels
  • Peters inherited the second overall pick in the draft and chose the uber-athletic Heisman winner from LSU. In what looks like a pretty special quarterback class, I think Peters got this pick correct – although some fans who were huge supporters of Drake Maye in the pre-draft process may argue otherwise. Daniels did have a rough second season marred by inconsistency and injuries, but his outlook remains high.
  • My Pick – Jayden Daniels
• RD2 #36: Jer’Zhan Newton
  • This was a big swing-and-miss by Peters. Although Newton played in 16 of a possible 17 regular season games as a rookie, his impact was minimal. He was coming off foot surgeries, and many felt he was not at 100 percent during the season, however his 2025 campaign showed very little improvement. He’ll enter 2026 as an afterthought.
  • My Pick: Cooper DeJean – DeJean has been a standout since entering the league, making the Pro Bowl and earning All-Pro in 2025.
• RD2 #50 (via trade-back with Eagles): Mike Sainristil
  • Sainristil looked decent as a rookie bouncing between slot corner and the outside, however he took a HUGE step backwards in 2025. There were times last season where he looked unplayable. The question needs to be asked, is it the player or the scheme? For now, I’m going to say we missed on this pick – ESPECIALLY seeing who we could have chosen.
  • My Pick: Edgerrin Cooper OR Kool-Aid McKinstry – Assuming the Eagles didn’t trade up for pick #40.
• RD2 #53 (via trade-back with Eagles): Ben Sinnott
  • In his first two seasons, Sinnott has been a major bust. He’s started five total games in two seasons and has recorded just 16 receptions for 142 yards and two touchdowns.
  • My Pick: I don’t have a pick here as I went with the assumption we never made the trade with the Eagles to move off pick 40.
• RD3 #67: Brandon Coleman
  • At the time, Coleman seemed like a solid third round pick. He was thrust into a starting role at left tackle as a rookie and really struggled – but that was to be expected. Quinn and Peters new they needed to do more to protect their franchise quarterback, so the move was made to trade for Laremy Tunsil the following offseason, leaving Coleman to battle with rookie Josh Conerly for the starting right tackle job – one he ultimately lost. He ended up getting moved to left guard where he lost the starting position to Chris Paul.
  • My Pick: Calen Bullock – Bullock was a versatile safety coming into the draft. He’s been a starter and key contributor for the Texans defense for the past two seasons, collecting nine total interceptions and making the Pro Bowl in 2025.
• RD3 #100: Luke McCaffrey
  • McCaffrey has been used as a fourth wide receiver and special teams player. He has 29 career receptions for 371 yard and three scores (all in 2025 before getting injured).
  • My Pick: Troy Franklin – Franklin, who was selected two picks after McCaffrey, has started 13 career games for Denver, and had a breakout season in 2025, collecting 65 receptions for 709 yards and six touchdowns. Franklin has 93 receptions for 972 and 8 scores in his career.

2025 NFL Draft​

• RD1 #29: Josh Conerly
  • Adam Peters selected Conerly near the end of the first round despite trading for Laremy Tunsil in the offseason and drafting Brandon Coleman the previous year. Conerly had a rough rookie season but did show some improvement during the final six games. He started all 17 games and didn’t miss an offensive snap.
  • My Pick: Nick Emmanwori – Emmanwori had an outstanding rookie season for the Seahawks and made his presence felt all throughout the playoffs and Super Bowl. He’s a true chess piece who supports the run like a linebacker and can cover like a corner.
• RD2 #61: Trey Amos
  • Amos performed admirably as a rookie on a horrible defense before breaking his lower leg in week 10. His six passes defended led the team through nine games and he easily looked like Washington’s best defender.
  • My Pick: Trey Amos – I will stick with Amos here but seeing what changes I would have made with the 2024 draft; this could have gone a different direction if we had both DeJean and McKinstry on the team.
  • Alternate Pick: Harold Fannin

---

Commanders Updated Roster​

Offense:

QB: Jayden Daniels

RB: Bill Croskey-Merritt

WR: Terry McLaurin

WR: Troy Franklin

WR: Treylon Burks/Jaylin Lane

TE: John Bates/?

LT: Laremy Tunsil

LG: Chris Paul

C: Tyler Biadasz

RG: Sam Cosmi

RT: Trent Scott/?

Defense:

EDGE: Dorance Armstrong

DT: Daron Payne

DT: Javon Kinlaw

EDGE: Frankie Luvu/?

LB: Edgerrin Cooper

LB: Jordan Magee

CB/LB: Nick Emmanwori

CB: Cooper DeJean

CB: Trey Amos

S: Calen Bullock

S: Quan Martin/Will Harris

---

Overall, Peters has had eight top 100 picks in two years. Of those picks, I feel he flat-out missed on three, and when you factor in who he COULD have had, I will say he hit on just two – Daniels and Amos. Now, I know this second part will be open for discussion and I did that intentionally so the dialogue could get flowing, as I don’t necessarily feel in the context of what really happened that Connerly, and maybe even McCaffrey were “misses”.

Regardless of the above, or how you feel personally about the previous picks, Adam Peters has a lot of work to do this offseason and only two top 100 picks to work with in the 2026 NFL draft. It’s possible he finds some gems like Bill Croskey-Merritt or Javontae Jean-Baptiste in later rounds but the misses on top 100 picks over the last two drafts could come back to haunt him – especially when you look at some of the talent Washington passed over.

Free agency, another area where Adam Peters hasn’t exactly knocked the ball out of the park these past two years, will be even more important this season as Washington looks to climb back into contention.

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/washingto...old-hard-truth-adam-peters-hasnt-drafted-well

 

[Washington Commanders]

Daily Slop: 15 Feb 26 – Chris Paul, Jaelan Phillips, Trevon Diggs, and OSU TE Max Klare in Washington Commanders headlines this weekend

Commanders links​

Articles​

A to Z Sports

Commanders have to decide between extending Chris Paul or letting him hit the market & finding an upgrade​

One of the biggest wild cards of free agency is left guard Chris Paul, who came out of nowhere and became the starter early in the season, and never looked back. Now, the former seventh-round pick is due for a new contract, and he’s also a pending free agent who will have a market outside of Washington.

It’s hard to predict what his market will be, and free agents will have inflated contracts this offseason as well, but I predict that Paul could net around $8-$12 million per year on his new deal. The Commanders could sign him to a three-year, $30 million contract, and it would be more than reasonable, while keeping him in a place where he’s succeeding.

That contract would have him making the same as New York Giants LG Jon Runyan Jr. and would be the 11th-highest-paid guard in the league.

Offensive linemen are a premium position in the NFL, and teams will absolutely have interest in Paul, so getting a deal done before the free agency tampering window opens on March 9th would be smart.

---

Heavy.com

Terry McLaurin : Headed for more volume in 2026?​

New Commanders offensive coordinator David Blough wants McLaurin to get “10 targets a game,” according to UWSA9’s John Doran. “This thing’s going to be built around how do we get [McLaurin] 10 targets a game,” said Blough. “And get [McLaurin] explosive receptions after explosive receptions to kind of flip the field.” It sounds promising from a fantasy standpoint, but McLaurin has reached eight targets per game just once in his seven NFL seasons (8.9 in 2020). He finished 2025 with career lows for games played (10), targets per game (6.0) and yards per game (58.2), among other statistics, though he also averaged 9.7 YPT and had a career-high 61.7 percent success rate on targets. There’s a strong enough bounce-back argument for 2026, even if the volume mentioned by Blough is unrealistic.

---

Heavy.com

Trevon Diggs Worth the Risk for Dan Quinn​

Given how his career has cratered in recent years, Diggs is an obvious risk for the Commanders. Quinn’s presence would offset the risk because he called plays for the Cowboys’ defense when Diggs snatched 11 interceptions in 2021.

Those picks made Diggs an All-Pro, and he became a back-to-back Pro Bowler the following season. Quinn designed a defense that allowed Diggs to take chances, an aggressive brand of zone coverage with deep help to let corners play off and jump the ball.

A torn ACL and a concussion wrecked Diggs’ progress, with his decline gathering pace once Quinn left Dallas to join the Commanders in 2024. Even so, there are still compelling reasons to believe Diggs could rediscover his best form in Washington.

[Daronte Jones’] familiarity with sophisticated blitzing is great news for one of the few matchup nightmares on the Commanders’ defense.

Making better use of personnel up front to generate greater pressure will naturally improve those on the back end. Specifically, by affording defensive backs more opportunities to pounce for turnovers, the kind of dynamic Diggs needs to thrive.

---

Riggo’s Rag

Commanders 2026 NFL Draft: Ohio State TE Max Klare scouting report​

Max Klare NFL Player Comparison: Noah Fant

Similar to Fant, Klare wins with speed, alignment flexibility, and receiving ability while continuing to develop as a complete tight end on run downs.

Max Klare NFL Draft Grade: Day 2 (Rounds 2-3)

Klare carries a Day 2 grade, with upside that could push him higher as he gains experience. For Washington, he would project as a contributor early with the potential to grow into a featured receiving tight end. If developed patiently and deployed creatively, Klare could become a valuable offensive piece who expands Washington’s passing game and forces defensive coordinators to account for his athleticism on every snap.

Max Klare was WIDE OPEN for this touchdown reception
pic.twitter.com/RVkLBbNRa2

— The Silver Bulletin (@tSilverBulletin) November 22, 2025

---

Pro Football Focus

2026 NFL Free Agency: Top landing spots for the five best edge defenders​

Jaelan Phillips​

• Best Landing Spot: Washington Commanders

After foregoing the opportunity to upgrade their edge defender unit last offseason, the Commanders paid the price in 2025, ranking among the NFL’s lowest-graded defenses (53.7, 27th). A season-ending knee injury to Dorance Armstrong limited the rotation, resulting in the Commanders’ 23rd-ranked pass-rush win rate off the edge. Now, with their top pressure generators Von Miller and Jacob Martin scheduled to enter free agency, this projects as a good time to upgrade the position.

Although injuries limited his time on the field in previous seasons, Phillips showcased his talent as a pass rusher in 2025. He didn’t rack up massive sack production, but he posted the seventh-highest pass-rush win rate (19.1%) among qualifying edge defenders while ranking in the 85th percentile in PFF pass-rush grade on true pass sets.

---

Podcasts & videos​

Will Positional Value Play a Role in Commanders Draft?​

---

NFC East links​

Big Blue View

NY Giants NFL free agency 2026: Could the Giants go BIG at fullback?​

Patrick Ricard appears likely to leave the Baltimore Ravens, and the Giants might be a logical landing spot

e don’t know at this point in time if New York Giants offensive coordinator Matt Nagy will want to include a fullback in his offense. It is a pretty safe bet, though, that head coach John Harbaugh would prefer to have one.

A quick check of the 53-man rosters over his 18 years as head coach of the Baltimore Ravens shows only two seasons — 2017 and 2018 — during which Baltimore did not carry a true fullback on its roster.

If the Giants want a fullback they could, theoretically, turn inward and convert 280-pound defensive tackle Elijah Chatman into a full-time player at that position. Chatman did dabble at fullback in 2025, playing three snaps on offense.

Or, the Giants could make about as big a splash as you can make in the modern NFL when you are signing a fullback by bringing 300-pound Patrick Ricard to New Jersey from the Ravens.

Ricard, entering his age 32 season, played both fullback and defensive tackle for Baltimore in his first three seasons. He has been a full-time fullback since 2020.

Ricard is a one-time First-Team All-Pro (2024), a two-time Second-Team All-Pro, and a six-time Pro Bowl selection.

---

NFL league links​

Articles​

Commanders Wire

Commanders, Eagles and Buccaneers in same boat heading into 2026​

Nick Wright of Fox Sports recently ranked all 32 NFL teams into 12 tiers. The Commanders, Eagles, and Buccaneers were all in the “Anxious offseason” tier.

Teams: Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Commanders, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Explanation: “That offseason will lead to an anxious regular season.”

This is fair. After such a disappointing 2025 season, changes were made. And if those changes don’t result in better results in 2026, all three head coaches could be in trouble. It’s amazing to think Nick Sirianni could be on the hot seat less than two years after winning the Super Bowl, but most will acknowledge that Sirianni is no Bill Belichick, Don Shula, Joe Gibbs, or Sean McVay.

It’s no surprise that changes were made for all three teams after a disappointing season. Washington replaced both coordinators, while the Bucs and Eagles fired their offensive coordinators. So, the 2026 offseason is a big one for all three franchises.

---

aBit o’Twitter​

Mic’d up: new #Commanders assistant Jake Olsen as LSU’s safeties coach pic.twitter.com/8WdEYl7WFf

— Commanders on Roundtable (@WSHRoundtable) February 14, 2026

It's a deep, deep group. 16 EDGE prospects made my top-100 and they're all going to go.

Not that anyone needed a reminder, but the Seahawks' Super Bowl performance reinforced that there is no such thing as too much pass rush depth. https://t.co/0visHgHMQI

— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) February 13, 2026

Kevin Durant said he would trade his MVP for a Commanders Super Bowl . #raisehail

pic.twitter.com/V4WQ8OkBaM

— Wizskins (@Itswizskins) February 4, 2026

The #Commanders are officially entering their Stadium Era.

Did anyone else catch the Easter egg?
The reflection in the water shows the original RFK… while the future home of the Burgundy & Gold takes center stage.

Past in the reflection. Future in focus.
They're… https://t.co/yp5waMdeUC pic.twitter.com/nbbkGI6Z3G

— Tailgate Ted (@TailgateTed) February 13, 2026

Really cool image showing RFK 1.0 reflecting in the water.

The link also leads to a new logo of RFK 2.0 after the team released a logo in April paying homage to RFK 1.0. https://t.co/VTwbjywWrO pic.twitter.com/Tlm60pw9Ks

— Jake Russell (@_JakeRussell) February 13, 2026

---

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/daily-slo...-washington-commanders-headlines-this-weekend

 

[Washington Commanders]

Daily Slop: 16 Feb 26 – Former Redskins 2nd round pick, Tre’ Johnson has died aged 54

SLUG:REDSKINS DATE:07/29/00 PHOTO BY:JOEL RICHARDSON CAPTIPON: REDSKINS TRAINING CAMP AT ASHBURN,,,,TRE JOHNSON AT PRATICE Original Filename: A1.JPG ORG XMIT: ; 271 (Photo by Joel Richardson/The The Washington Post via Getty Images)

Commanders links​

Articles​

ESPN

Tre’ Johnson, the former Washington O-lineman, dies at 54​

Tre’ Johnson, a former NFL standout offensive lineman with Washington who went on to become a Maryland high school history teacher, died Sunday. He was 54.

In a Facebook post, Johnson’s wife, Irene, said he died during a family trip.

“It is with a heavy heart that I inform you that my husband, Tre’ Johnson, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly … during a brief family trip,” she wrote. “His four children, Chloe, EJ, EZ and Eden, extended family, friends, and I are devastated and in shock.”

After starring at Temple, Johnson was drafted by Washington with the 31st pick in 1994. He played for Washington through 2000, spent 2001 with Cleveland and returned to Washington for a final season in 2002. The 6-foot-2, 328-pound guard was a Pro Bowl selection in 1999.

After football, he became a history teacher at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland. His wife said recent health issues had forced him to take a leave of absence.

Sad news to pass along. One of my favorite Redskins ever Tre Johnson passed away today at the age of 54. He’d had some health issues since September. He was at Hampton U to see his son play Lax but collapsed in the hotel.
Tre was one of the smartest players I’ve ever met or… pic.twitter.com/oVTQI5S2aV

— Chick Hernandez (@MrChickSports) February 15, 2026

We're heartbroken to learn of the loss of former Washington All-Pro guard Tre' Johnson. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/6Iak2dhYwk

— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) February 16, 2026

---

Bullock’s Film Room (subscription)

Commanders Free Agent Fits: Tight End​

Good Value: Isaiah Likely, Ravens, 25

Likely is somewhat similar in profile to Pitts in that he’s more of a receiving tight end than a blocker, but he’s quite different in the way he wins. While Pitts is more linear and more of a vertical threat, Likely is more shifty. He shows the ability to work in and out of breaks sharply, making him a threat on underneath and intermediate routes. He’s more of what would be known as an “F” or “Joker” tight end that can move around the formation and often line up in the slot. From there, he can win quickly underneath and provide the quarterback early outlets.

---

Commanders Roundtable

Free-Agent Fix: Six Targets That Fit the Commanders’ Budget​

High Upside Corner: Jaylen Watson (27)

• Current Team: Kansas City Chiefs
• 2025 Stats: 2 INTs, 6 Pass Deflections, 2.0 Sacks, 64 Tackles
• Projected AAV: $12.5M – $15.0M

Why he’s available: The former seventh-round pick has exceeded expectations, but the Kansas City Chiefs currently rank 32nd in the NFL in salary cap space. They are projected to have -$57M on their books and need to release talent. Watson will likely be a cap casualty.

Why he fits: With a PFF overall score of 74.1 and a run defense grade of 83.5, Watson provides a blitzing, tough, aggressive defender who could thrive in a Flores-inspired defense. At 6’2” and 197 lbs, he provides ample size to complement the CB room. He also ranks 10th out of 114 CBs in QB pressures, showing his versatility around the line.

---

Commanders Roundtable

Are LSU defensive backs the clear NFL Draft targets for Commanders?​

The Washington Commanders reportedly upgraded its defensive staff on Friday night after adding LSU assistant Jake Olsen, who was one of only a few to be retained by new head coach Lane Kiffin this past offseason.

Olsen now joins a defensive staff with some familiarity given his year spent with the Tigers under Daronte Jones, who served as LSU’s defensive coordinator at the time while he was formally introduced as the Commanders new defensive coordinator earlier this week.

What role Olsen will serve on the defensive staff remains to be seen with Tommy Donatell the current safeties coach and William Gay serving as cornerbacks coach with both also carrying the ‘defensive backs coach’ title.

LSU safety AJ Haulcy enters the NFL Draft as one of the top prospects at his position with ESPN’s Mel Kiper ranking him eighth best.

[W]hat Haulcy did well fits what Daronte Jones has emphasized in interviews: takeaways with eight interceptions and 12 pass breakups over his last two seasons. While his angle and pursuit were inconsistent during SEC play, Haulcy has also flashed as a tackler through his college career including a career-high 24 tackles in 2023 against Fresno State. Other safeties not named Caleb Downs who fit Washington’s defense include Bud Clark from TCU and Kamari Ramsey from USC, but with familiarity between Olsen and Haulcy, there’s an obvious connection. Haulcy has drawn day two grades with some outlets projecting him to come off the board in the third round, making it a realistic possibility for the Commanders ahead of the combine later this month.

AJ Haulcy is a playmaker who can lay some BIG HITS

Top 50 player on my 2026 NFL Draft Big Board https://t.co/LjxtqHyRwi pic.twitter.com/s92SqaSkak

— NFL Draft Files (@NFL_DF) December 19, 2025

---

Riggo’s Rag

John Harbaugh could take Caleb Downs out of Commanders’ reach at No. 7​

During an appearance on the Mike Francesca Podcast, Harbaugh revealed that he would take Downs in a heartbeat at No. 5 overall. He wants the Giants to take the best player available, regardless of need or positional importance. That would not be great news for the Commanders, especially considering they’d have to face the defensive back twice a season within the NFC East.

“Big fan. Big fan. We value Hall of Fame safeties, so if we have the chance to potentially draft a future Hall of Fame safety in Caleb Downs, that would be just fine with me. We’ll take the best player. When you draft that high, you take the best player. It’s not a need pick; it’s the best player pick. That’s what the goal is at that pick. That guy would be just fine with me. I’d take him in a second.”John Harbaugh

Harbaugh knows the value of having an ultra-productive safety. He’s worked with exceptional forces such as Brian Dawkins, Ed Reed, and Kyle Hamilton throughout his illustrious coaching career. It’s clear he sees Downs as someone who could follow a similar trajectory to superstardom, and if he’s got the final say over general manager Joe Schoen, this might be the choice when push comes to shove.

"I think he's going to go in the top ten… when he hits somebody, they freaking stop." @Bcarp3 asks @AlbertBreer his thoughts on Caleb Downs' draft grade possibility. pic.twitter.com/SriMOpq230

— 97.1 The Fan (@971thefan) February 14, 2026

---

The Athletic (paywall)

One potential 2026 salary-cap cut for every NFL team​

Washington Commanders​

CB Marshon Lattimore

Cap casualty, veteran cut, unsurprising cut — use whatever label you want, but Lattimore’s time with the Commanders is almost certainly done. He has one year left on his deal, but his $16.5 million salary isn’t guaranteed, which means the team can move on and save $18.5 million in cap space. It’s a layup, and frankly it’s necessary for the defense to improve. But the failed experiment was costly. Washington gave up essentially three draft picks (the Commanders also swapped fifth-rounders) to acquire Lattimore from the New Orleans Saints at the 2024 trading deadline. The Commanders’ attempt to rebuild, at the time, seemed to be on a faster track than anticipated. But Lattimore was often more of a liability than an asset to Washington’s secondary, and the team proved last season that it’s clearly far from contending anytime soon. — Nicki Jhabvala

---

Commanders Wire

Kirk Cousins has interesting Sean McVay theory from time in Washington​

Regarding how Bruce Allen low-balled Cousins after the 2015 season, never offering him anything close to his market value? Cousins took the high road again, stating he understood if they wanted more time to assess and he was glad to go ahead and play for the franchise tag. He also clarified that they did come with a legitimate offer later in 2017, but he thought that with Sean McVay having left, and changes were in the works, he would simply finish the season and see how the season progressed and see what his market value would be.

Interestingly, Cousins thought if the Redskins had won the 2016 finale against the Giants, they would have been in the playoffs, and that reduces the chance the Rams would have waited on 31-year-old Sean McVay. “I regret losing that game; I gave Sean the chance to go interview in LA, and the rest is history.”

---

Podcasts & videos​

What I’ve learned (more) about the defense and new DC Daronte Jones. ⁦@ESPNRichmond⁩ https://t.co/FaPsP2HTcP

— John Keim (@john_keim) February 16, 2026

---

NFC East links​

Vegas Insider

The Most Loved and Most Hated NFL Players, According to Fans​

Players Who Rank Highly for Both Love and Hate​

Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills)

• Love Rank: No. 1
• Hate Rank: No. 17

Allen ranks first for love while still landing inside the top 20 for hate — proof that the biggest stars attract the widest emotional swing.

Daniel Jones (Indianapolis Colts)

• Love Rank: No. 7
• Hate Rank: No. 5

Jones sits near the top of both lists, driven by heavy discussion volume and sharply divided expectations.

Justin Fields (New York Jets)

• Love Rank: No. 9
• Hate Rank: No. 8

Fields generates near-equal measures of optimism and frustration, making him one of the most debated players in the league.

What stands out​

• Hurts leads by a wide margin.
  Jalen Hurts ranks No. 1 with a Hate Score of 10.0, separating himself clearly from the rest of the league.

---

Blogging the Boys

Cynic vs skeptic​

When I think of a lot of views on this board, it’s hard not to assign them one of these words, myself included.

From Google’s AI

A cynic is generally defined as someone who doubts human sincerity, believing actions are motivated solely by self-interest, often expressing this via sarcasm.

For sure that’s me at times.

A skeptic is a person who habitually doubts generally accepted beliefs, claims, or knowledge, requiring evidence before accepting them as true.

Wait, that’s me too!?

So if the team doesn’t win anything important in 30 years and Jerry says he’s doing something different now because his old ways weren’t working, which word is applicable?

So back to AI – Skepticism vs Cynicisim?

Skepticism is a constructive, evidence-based inquiry that doubts assumptions to find truth, while cynicism is a jaded, pessimistic default that assumes the worst in people and ignores evidence. Skeptics remain open-minded but demand proof, whereas cynics are closed-minded, distrustful, and motivated by negativity.

Ouch. But wait a minute. I think my view of Jerry is pretty much this – “jaded, pessimistic default that assumes the worst in people” but I think I AM basing that on empirical evidence! (30 years is a long time.) “Skeptics remain open-minded but demand proof”…

So what is there to be open-minded about? So if we believe Jerry has turned over a new leaf, and we believe there will be positive results in the future, what do we call that?

Back to AI – what is Pollyannish?

Pollyannaish describes an outlook that is excessively, naively, or blindly optimistic, often ignoring potential problems or harsh realities.

But there needs to be a better word for a kind of positivity (or negativity) that is based on commercial interests, no?

Google? What if the “pollyannaish”, “skeptic”, or “cynic” is offering their view for commercial interest, what do we call that?

When a person’s outlook—whether optimistic, skeptical, or cynical—is driven by commercial interest rather than genuine belief, it is generally referred to as rent-seeking behavior or, more specifically, motivated reasoning used for profit.

Now we are getting somewhere. So do I really qualify as a cynic when I know darn good and well much of what I am being fed is derived from “motivated reasoning”? Commercial interests if you will?

So yeah, if Jerry and our local media all have a commercial interest in convincing us things will be different (because they made a ton of money on Cowboy fans over the same 30 years of futility) shouldn’t we be cynical rather than skeptical? Do I really need another offseason of proof? Evidence?

Jerry, imo is ALWAYS rent-seeking. So I am going to go ahead and admit it…I’m a cynic when it comes to anything Cowboys that has a commercial interest for Jerry. Because it, in my view, is what keeps us from winning anything important for 30 years.

---

Big Blue View

NY Giants 2026 NFL Draft scouting report: Josiah Trotter, LB, Missouri​

Can Josiah Trotter exceed his father’s legacy?

Josiah Trotter will likely begin his career as an early down and short-yardage linebacker, as well as a special teams player.

Trotter has the potential to be a three-down, and starting, linebacker in the NFL. However, he will need to make significant improvements in his pass coverage before teams trust him on neutral or passing downs. That could limit his draft stock, though his interviews and board work could convince teams to bet on his upside with a relatively high pick.

Final Word: An early Day 3 or later Day 2 pick

---

NFL league links​

Articles​

ESPN

Raiders hire Seahawks QB coach Andrew Janocko as new OC​

Janocko will once again reunite with first-time head coach Klint Kubiak, whom he worked with in Seattle, New Orleans and Minnesota. Janocko was also a candidate for the same title in Seattle as Kubiak’s successor.

Janocko and Kubiak will be tasked with turning around a Raiders offense that was one of the worst in the league in 2025. Under Chip Kelly and interim offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach Greg Olson, Las Vegas was last in points scored (14.2), rushing yards per game (77.5) and total yards (245.2), and 26th in red zone efficiency (50%).

NFL OC tracker… 20 have been filled:

1) Titans: Brian Daboll
2) Chargers: Mike McDaniel
3) Chiefs: Eric Bieniemy
4) Lions: Drew Petzing
5) Dolphins: Bobby Slowik
6) Commanders: David Blough
7) Falcons: Tommy Rees
8) Bucs: Zac Robinson
9) Ravens: Declan Doyle
10) Bills: Pete…

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) February 15, 2026

Sources: Seahawks expected to hire 49ers’ Brian Fleury as OC​

The Seattle Seahawks are expected to hire San Francisco 49ers tight ends coach and run game coordinator Brian Fleury as their new offensive coordinator, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Sunday.

The decision represents a pivot for the Super Bowl champion Seahawks, who began their search for Klint Kubiak’s replacement thinking they would likely promote from within.

Instead, they pluck from a division rival by hiring Fleury, who has spent the past seven seasons with the 49ers. He joined Kyle Shanahan’s staff in 2019 as a defensive quality-control coach and spent the next two seasons (2020-21) as an offensive quality-control coach before a promotion to tight ends coach (2022). Fleury added the title of run game coordinator last season.

NFL Defensive Coordinator tracker:

1) Bills: Jim Leonhard
2) 49ers: Raheem Morris
3) Packers: Jonathan Gannon
4) Steelers: Patrick Graham
5) Giants: Dennard Wilson
6) Cowboys: Christian Parker
7) Commanders: Daronte Jones
8) Chargers: Chris O'Leary
9) Dolphins: Sean Duggan
10)… https://t.co/ASUIcg2zk3

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) February 16, 2026

---

aBit o’Twitter​

Free agents who could be of interest to the Commanders who I don’t believe will hit the open market:

George Pickens
Kyle Pitts
Kenneth Walker
Odafe Oweh
K’Lavon Chaisson
Jaelan Phillips
Nahshon Wright

— Mark Tyler (Hogs Haven) (@Tiller56) February 15, 2026

Daronte Jones may turn Tyler Owens into a menace for the Commanders defense.

-6’2” 215lbs
-4.30 40 (pro day)
-12’2” broad jump (2nd in combine history)
-fastest @ ‘24 shrine bowl – (21.55 mph)
-41” vert (#1 safety)

These numbers don’t tell the whole story, but he has ALL the… pic.twitter.com/xOpQBJPy1r

— Carolina Commander (@SC_Commanderr) February 14, 2026

You NEED to draft your tackles early pic.twitter.com/idqBHbiozN

— PFF (@PFF) February 14, 2026

---

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/daily-slo...skins-2nd-round-pick-tre-johnson-died-aged-54

 

[Washington Commanders]

Is There Room for Germie Bernard in the Commanders’ Receiving Corps?

PASADENA, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 1: Germie Bernard #5 of the Alabama Crimson Tide catches a pass against the Indiana Hoosiers during the second quarter of the College Football Playoff Quarter Final Game at Rose Bowl Stadium on January 1, 2026 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by CFP/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Germie Bernard, WR
School: Alabama | Conference: SEC
College Experience: Senior | Age: 22
Height / Weight: 6’1” / 204 lbs
Projected Draft Status: 2nd-3rd Round
Player Comparison: Jakobi Meyers

College Statistics​

Receiving	Rushing	Scrimmage
Season	Team	Conf	Class	Pos	G	Rec	Yds	Y/R	TD	Y/G	Att	Yds	Y/A	TD	Y/G	Plays	Yds	Avg	TD	Awards
2022	Michigan State	Big Ten	FR	WR	12	7	128	18.3	2	10.7	1	3	3.0	0	0.3	8	131	16.4	2
2023*	Washington	Pac-12	SO	WR	14	34	419	12.3	2	29.9	13	43	3.3	2	3.1	47	462	9.8	4
2024*	Alabama	SEC	JR	WR	13	50	794	15.9	2	61.1	4	37	9.3	1	2.8	54	831	15.4	3
2025	Alabama	SEC	SR	WR	14	64	862	13.5	7	61.6	18	101	5.6	2	7.2	82	963	11.7	9
Career	53	155	2203	14.2	13	41.6	36	184	5.1	5	3.5	191	2387	12.5	18
Alabama (2 Yrs)	27	114	1656	14.5	9	61.3	22	138	6.3	3	5.1	136	1794	13.2	12
Michigan State (1 Yr)	12	7	128	18.3	2	10.7	1	3	3.0	0	0.3	8	131	16.4	2
Washington (1 Yr)	14	34	419	12.3	2	29.9	13	43	3.3	2	3.1	47	462	9.8	4

Receiving & Rushing Table

Provided by CFB at Sports Reference: View Original Table
Generated 1/31/2026.

Kick Returns	Punt Returns
Season	Team	Conf	Class	Pos	G	Ret	Yds	Y/Ret	KRTD	Ret	Yds	Y/Ret	PRTD	APYd	Awards
2022	Michigan State	Big Ten	FR	WR	12	6	119	19.8	0	0	0	0	250
2023*	Washington	Pac-12	SO	WR	14	10	233	23.3	0	3	43	14.3	0	738
2024*	Alabama	SEC	JR	WR	13	0	0	0	0	0	0	831
2025	Alabama	SEC	SR	WR	14	0	0	0	0	0	0	963
Career	53	16	352	22.0	0	3	43	14.3	0	2782
Alabama (2 Yrs)	27	0	0	0	0	0	0	1794
Michigan State (1 Yr)	12	6	119	19.8	0	0	0	0	250
Washington (1 Yr)	14	10	233	23.3	0	3	43	14.3	0	738

Kick & Punt Returns Table

Provided by CFB at Sports Reference: View Original Table
Generated 2/1/2026.

Player Overview​

Not only was Germie Bernard a multi-sport athlete in high school, running track while playing basketball and football, but he was also a multi-position threat on the football field in his native Las Vegas. He put up almost 1,000 yards receiving and almost 500 yards rushing his senior season, earning him Gatorade Player of the Year for Nevada. A four-star recruit, Bernard initially committed to Washington, but ultimately chose to play at Michigan State and rejected not only the Huskies, but Michigan, Oregon, Miami, and several others.

Bernard saw action in every game as a freshman with the Spartans, but decided to transfer to Washington for his sophomore season. Playing behind Rome Odunze, Ja’lynn Polk, and Jalen McMillan, Bernard put up solid numbers. When Kalen DeBoer left Washington to take the Alabama head coaching job, Bernard went with him and started right away. He led the Crimson Tide in catches his junior year and was second on the team in yards and touchdowns behind Ryan Williams. For his senior season, Bernard improved all his numbers and led the team in receptions and yards, and was second in touchdowns.

Strengths​

• Excellent at finding soft spots in zones
• Rarely drops passes
• Uses above-average short-area quickness to get open and slip tackles
• High-end run after the catch ability with excellent vision
• Effective gadget player with kick and punt return experience

Weaknesses​

• While quick, doesn’t display great long speed
• Several touches are schemed or come when aligned off the line of scrimmage
• Could be more creative with his releases when facing press coverage
• Speed looks only adequate for the next level

Let’s See His Work​

Alabma WR Germie Bernard's In-Game Athleticism™ on full display, reaching 18.5 mph on this 25-yard TD. https://t.co/8LRce2KNGc pic.twitter.com/LaEyuwrgbD

— Reel Analytics (@RAanalytics) October 28, 2025

Alabama Wide Receiver Germie Bernard This Season:

94 Targets
1 Drop@AlabamaFTBL https://t.co/Pulwe52Nvu pic.twitter.com/p5Re47eimk

— PFF College (@PFF_College) December 19, 2025

How He Fits on the Commanders​

The Commanders’ will have Terry McLaurin, Luke McCaffrey, and Jaylin Lane under contract for next season. Even if the team re-signs Deebo Samuel, they still need to look for additions to the receiving corps. Germie Bernard could give the Commanders a prospect with WR2 upside. While he is smaller than Samuel, he played a similar role for Alabama. Bernard did a lot of damage in the intermediate area of the field and over the middle. Alabama schemed touches for him near the line of scrimmage, even giving him touches running out of the backfield. Make no mistake though, if Bernard can improve some of his weaknesses, particularly improving his play outside against press coverage, he could be the Commanders’ WR2 for the foreseeable future.

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/nfl-draft...mie-bernard-in-the-commanders-receiving-corps

 

[Washington Commanders]

Daily Slop: 17 Feb 26 – Jake Olsen will continue coaching at LSU, not joining Commanders staff

BATON ROUGE, LA - OCTOBER 25: Safeties coach Jake Olsen of the LSU Tigers in action against the Texas A&M Aggies at Tiger Stadium on October 25, 2025 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. (Photo by Gus Stark/LSU/University Images via Getty Images)

Commanders links​

Articles​

Commanders Roundtable

College assistant has change of heart, spurns Commanders to stay​

LSU safeties coach Jake Olsen is now expected to remain with the LSU Tigers despite initially accepting the job with Washington, per Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports. The news roughly two months after head coach Lane Kiffin named Olsen one of a handful of assistant coaches expected to remain with the Tigers after taking over at LSU, marking it a notable win for LSU and a loss of a quality defensive assistant to add to a revamped defensive staff for the Commanders.

The connection came through the Commanders new defensive coordinator after Olsen worked on the LSU defensive staff under Daronte Jones during the 2021 season.

While it served as an expected notable addition for Washington, what role he would have joined with the Commanders remained unclear given Tommy Donatell was announced as the current safeties coach and William Gay serving as cornerbacks coach among several new staff additions, but he would have been be another piece to a defensive staff looking to turn the page from an abysmal season under Joe Whitt Jr.

Trying this again … the Commanders' staff is still being finalized, but the team has posted most of the new hires/titles … pic.twitter.com/pzIvtADdBV

— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) February 16, 2026

---

A to Z Sports

Daronte Jones excited to work with Commanders LB Frankie Luvu this season​

“Love Frankie Luvu,” Jones said. “Watched him on tape. He’s a guy who, before I even got here, we would watch and put on a tape in our meeting room. I love his athleticism. He’s best going downhill, getting the match-up on running backs, that’s always a key. You’re going to hear that a lot in terms of match ability and putting guys in advantageous positions. He’s best when he can go downhill, use his athleticism to win on edges, and use his speed.”

“So, time, distance, and space to encounter those matchups. And you want to put him in that situation where he’s matched up on the running back. And I think running backs are one of the guys, on offense, that get the least amount of reps and protections.”

Luvu was a great free agency signing for the Commanders two offseasons ago, and he was actually voted as the No. 70 player in the NFL’s Top-100 after his 2024 season and second team All-Pro honors. In 2025, we saw Luvu take a massive stepback, but he was also out of position, which went against his strengths.

Luvu played 473 snaps on the defensive line in 2025, far more than in 2024, when he played only 288 snaps up front. He was also forced to take on offensive tackles instead of running backs, like Jones pointed out, and it didn’t take him long to see that on film. Luvu was forced to play as a pass rusher way too often with the injuries on the line, but that will change in 2026.

I expect Jones to let Luvu run loose as a linebacker again, and the Commanders will have to address the defensive line this offseason for him to do so. Luvu’s coverage ability and run-stopping will improve when he’s back in the box, and he’ll be a more effective pass rusher when he’s coming on blitzes and getting matched up on running backs.

---

Riggo’s Rag

10 potential high-impact cap casualties the Commanders could pounce on​

The Commanders should be monitoring all developments around the league

Commanders should monitor Rashan Gary

The Commanders are desperately seeking help on the defensive edge. Adam Peters has made no secret of his desire to strengthen the unit, which lacked dynamism and speed, as the general manager relied heavily on aging veterans well past their primes.

There should be some enticing options available in free agency or the draft. Peters will also be monitoring possible cut candidates around the NFL for potential help, and Rashan Gary’s situation with the Green Bay Packers won’t go unnoticed.

Gary is still a high-end performer when firing on all cylinders. The Packers would save $19.5 million on their 2026 cap with a post-June 1 release, which is a tempting proposition after the team acquired Micah Parsons from the Dallas Cowboys last year.

The former Michigan star wouldn’t solve every problem, but Gary has the potential to get Washington a lot closer.

Commanders should monitor Tremaine Edmunds

The Commanders need more at the linebacker position. New defensive coordinator Daronte Jones’ projected switch to a 3-4 base front means more athleticism and explosiveness are required at the second level. If Bobby Wagner moves on as expected, the desire for reinforcements only becomes greater.

Adam Peters will probably look to the NFL Draft class, which is deep at the position. But if Jones wants to hit the ground running, he may want an established veteran with proven production at the highest level.

Tremaine Edmunds has been touted as a potential salary-cap cut candidate for the Chicago Bears, which would save them $15 million. He’s gone over 100 tackles in each of his eight NFL seasons. And the former Virginia Tech standout will be 28 next season, so this could be an investment for Washington’s future as well as the present.

Commanders have a big decision to make with Treylon Burks before free agency​

Massive changes are coming to Washington’s receiver room this offseason. Only Terry McLaurin, Luke McCaffrey, and Jaylin Lane are guaranteed to be on the 53-man roster. Deebo Samuel Sr. could get a new deal if the money works, but nothing is guaranteed. The rest are either aging veterans down on their luck or younger players who aren’t quite up to the required standard.

As for Burks? He lies somewhere in the middle.

He’s not old enough to have reached his ceiling. He’s not young enough to be a development project. His production was decent enough in difficult circumstances, but whether it’s enough for another commitment from Washington is another matter.

The Commanders need a dynamic wideout capable of stretching the field. They need someone who can work the middle and be an asset in the red zone. They’ll also need some complementary pieces, which Burks looks capable of with another full offseason with the club to build chemistry with quarterback Jayden Daniels and learn the schematic concepts being installed by new offensive coordinator David Blough.

It would also be a relatively cheap exercise to keep him around, which only sweetens the pot.

The former Arkansas standout is expected to get a one-year, $3.54 million deal, according to Spotrac.

---

Heavy.com

Noah Igbinoghene : Secures first career sack in 2025​

Igbinoghene recorded 35 total tackles (22 solo), including 1.0 sacks, while also adding five passes defensed and 191 kickoff-return yards over 15 contests during the 2025 regular season. Igbinoghene was able to register at least 35 takedowns for the second straight year after compiling 29 total tackles over his first four seasons in the NFL. The 26-year-old was also able to notch his first career sack in 2025, bringing down Eagles quarterback Tanner McKee in the regular-season finale. Igbinoghene is set to become a free agent in the offseason, and his increased production over the last two seasons has certainly raised his value on the open market.

---

Podcasts & videos​

Washington Commanders Rumor Mill Just Took Unexpected Turn with release of edge rusher Bradley Chubb​

---

Fireworks in F/A for Washington?​

---

New pod talking Deebo and Tyreek and young/old and paying tribute to Tre Johnson https://t.co/tMUZHs8NuT

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) February 17, 2026

---

Free agent WR market could be tricky for Commanders | John Keim Report​

---

NFC East links​

Blogging the Boys

Why the Cowboys have an obligation to move on from Terence Steele​

Steele has been one of the most scrutinized players on the team over the last few seasons. Sometimes deserved, other times, not so much. For years now, critics have voiced their desire to see a change at the position, often overlooking the many quiet moments where he just goes about his business, providing reliable play on the right side.

But the time has finally arrived where fans could get their wish. Due to looming financial constraints, the Cowboys have some tough decisions ahead, and this once-feel-good developmental story could be nearing its natural conclusion.

Steele’s NFL journey started as the classic underdog story, entering the league as an undrafted free agent from Texas Tech in 2020. He was thrust into a starting role far earlier than expected due to an injury to incumbent starter La’el Collins, leading to a frantic rookie season where he looked physically overmatched, giving up nine sacks. But just like the little engine that could, Steele showed incredible resilience and improved his technique, replacing Collins and securing his spot as the team’s new starting right tackle. His gradual rise earned him a five-year, $82.5 million extension, and he hasn’t missed a single game over the last three years.

The primary hurdle in keeping Steele is his pricey cap hit. The team already has seven players on the roster making at least $20 million annually, and that doesn’t include George Pickens, who should join them shortly. Steele is not one of those players, as he comes in with an average salary of $16 million over the next three years. That’s not super expensive, but it’s not chump change either.

[P]aying a hefty price for a right tackle who provides league-average pass protection is a luxury the Cowboys can no longer afford. If the team wants to ensure the proper resources are allocated in the right spots, then moving on from Steele is something to be considered.

By pivoting to a younger or cheaper option, the Cowboys can maintain quality offensive line play while gaining the financial flexibility needed to create a more balanced roster.

---

Big Blue View

NY Giants free agency 2026: 5 wide receivers to consider​

Tyquan Thornton, KC

Speaking of productive deep threats — particularly one who could likely be signed for a fraction of what it would cost to sign Pierce — this option deserves serious consideration.

The 6-foot-2 wideout blazed a 4.28 in the 40-yard dash at the combine and delivered his most efficient season yet, totaling 438 yards on just 19 receptions with three touchdowns. Still only 25, [he is] relatively proven vertical threat who can immediately inject speed into the offense, Thornton — coming off a 23.1 yards-per-catch mark with the Chiefs — would be a strong value option at the right price.

Tyquan Thornton 2025 by the numbers.

Passer rating when targeted | 124.5
Yards per target | 12.17
Yards | 438
Touchdowns | 3
aDOT | 27.6
Routes ran from slot | 37.2%
Routes ran out wide | 62.8%
pic.twitter.com/2ZWGqqIjfD

— SleeperChiefs (@SleeperChiefsKC) January 8, 2026

#Chiefs WR win rate.
Minimum 200 routes.

*percentage of routes with a positive separation score

Tyquan Thornton 15.2%
Juju Smith-Schuster 10.2%
Rashee Rice 9.9%
Xavier Worthy 9.2%
Hollywood Brown 8.3%#ChiefsKingdom

pic.twitter.com/2ZWGqqHLq5

— SleeperChiefs (@SleeperChiefsKC) February 10, 2026

---

Over the Cap

Looking at the Costs of Cutting or Trading Eagles WR AJ Brown​

Can The Eagles Cut Brown?

Cutting Brown would be extremely difficult for Philadelphia this season and would make little sense. His $29 million salary is fully guaranteed and the team would owe him that whether they release him or not. The dead money associated with a release would be $72.448 million, a loss of $49 million in cap room. While keeping him does trigger another $4 million in guaranteed salary for 2027, that number is small enough to not concern the Eagles.

As a post June 1 the team could split the dead money as $45.354 in 2026 and $27.095 million in 2027. They could digest that a little more but again does not really make sense from a financial standpoint.

Can the Eagles Trade Brown?

Trading Brown would be a viable option for the Eagles if they could find a trade partner. The Eagles structure all of their contracts these days with “built in” contract restructures and Brown’s is no different. What the team does is include an option bonus that covers all of the salary for a player in a year except for the minimum that is mandated by the CBA along with any other minor bonuses in the contract.

This effectively accomplishes the same thing a restructure does by converting salary to bonus except it maintains a trade window for the Eagles. This is why Brown’s salary cap charge for 2026 is $23.393 million rather than $45.35 million. The Eagles make the dates to exercise these options very late in the preseason, basically right before the first regular season game, thus giving them all summer to trade the player and not pay the salary required to lower the salary cap charge. In a normal restructure the Eagles would be on the hook for all but his $1.3 million base salary in a trade since the restructure bonus would have been committed by the Eagles.

The cost to trade Brown on the cap prior to June 2nd would be $48.939 million. That would be a loss of $25.5 million in cap room for the team. They would also get a $5.5 million cap credit in 2027. I would imagine in a trade this year they would get a draft pick in 2026. I don’t think you could rule this out but I think the team would try to wait things out until the summer.

If the team waited until the summer to make a trade the post June 1 rules would be in effect. The team would be looking at $22.09 million in dead money this year and $21.6 million in dead money in 2027(that number is the net number as the Eagles will receive a cap credit for $5.5 million in 2027). One thing that also works in the Eagles favor in a summer trade is that teams are far more willing to part with future picks, especially if they need to cover for an injury, and often can have all kinds of conditionals attached that can bring the round of the trade up. It also avoids the scrutiny of doing a trade, getting a mid round pick in the current draft, and then watching the player kill it in 2026 for another team. The do or die date for this scenario is the day before the first game of the year for the Eagles, which should be September 13th. That is a lot of time to find a trade partner.

What if Brown isn’t Moved?

You simply wait things out and see how things go on the field this year. Maybe Brown gets along better with the coaching staff. Maybe his numbers go up. Maybe the offense is more productive. If not you cut him in 2027. In 2027 the Eagles would be looking at dead money worth about $53 million and they would definitely use a post June 1 release in that scenario splitting the dead money at $25.08 million in 2027 and $27.98 million in 2028. They would also get an offset credit in 2027 that should be worth $4 million. While that may look like dragging things out, considering there is no way out of his 2026 salary without a trade it is far better to drag the salary cap over three years rather than two years considering the Eagles cap situation.

A few weeks ago I put a video out that covers many of the same things as here. If you prefer that format you can watch the video instead.

---

NFL league links​

Articles​

ESPN

Hill, cut by ‘Phins, vows, ‘the Cheetah will be back’​

In a post on Instagram, Hill thanked the Dolphins, his teammates and the team’s fans. He also vowed that his career will continue.

The Journey Don’t Stop

From the bottom of my heart, Thank You To the entire @miamidolphins organization, my teammates, the staff, and most importantly Fins Nation, for an unforgettable 4 years.

From the moment I landed in Miami, I felt the Love. You believed in me. You pushed me. You celebrated with me. These past few years have been some of the most meaningful of my life and career.

To my brothers in the locker room who have come and gone — Thank You for the wins, the Ls, the memories, the sacrifices.

We built something special, together, for the city of Miami.

To all my coaches and the organization, Thank You for challenging me to grow and holding me accountable.

And to the fans… y’all are different man. The way you showed up for us week after week, no matter the outcome— that love was real. I feel it thru out the city and every time I stepped into Hardrock.

Miami, you have became my home.

But, the journey doesn’t stop here…

Every chapter in life has taught me something. This one taught me leadership, resilience, and mostly gratitude. The love I have for this game is unexplainable. And right now, this off season, for the first time ever, The Cheetah is all the way turned up and locked in. Focused.

The Cheetah don’t slow down. Ever.

So to everyone wondering what’s next… just wait on it.
The Cheetah will be back…Born Again.

Where could Tyreek Hill land after being released from the Miami Dolphins? @bepryor breaks down potential teams where the former Pro Bowl WR could play next season. pic.twitter.com/jf4nPcd7ap

— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) February 16, 2026

---

NFL.com

Dolphins releasing two-time Pro Bowler Bradley Chubb​

NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport added that this decision was always expected after the team restructured Chubb’s contract last year, which resulted in a $31.2 million cap hit for 2026.

Chubb led the team in sacks during each of his last two healthy seasons. He totaled 11 sacks in 2023 to go along with a league-leading six forced fumbles, and in 2025 paced Miami with 8.5.

Those two campaigns were sandwiched around Chubb sitting out the entirety of the 2024 season due to a torn ACL.

Now, heading into his age-30 season, he’s free to look for a third NFL home. There should be no shortage of suitors for the former Bronco and Dolphin, who boasts 48 career sacks and certainly appears to have more left in the tank despite some big injuries.

Turns 30 in June. Two ACL injuries in his career. Missed 2024. Last two seasons played: combined 20 sacks, including 8.5 this year when he played all 17 games. Take a look at all but also be aware of all. https://t.co/3fjCgcM2vi

— John Keim (@john_keim) February 16, 2026

Food for Thought:

Von Miller (Age 37): 420 snaps, 10 Sacks, $5.8M AAV

– #PFF: 62.4 Pass Rush, 67.2 Run D

Bradley Chubb (Age 30): 766 snaps, 8 Sacks, $12.2M AAV

– #PFF: 60.3 Rush, 57.2 Run D

Do either of these players appeal to you? If so, which do you prefer? #RaiseHail pic.twitter.com/DbOVlSqVED

— George Carmi (@Gcarmi21) February 16, 2026

First thing I did when I heard this news was go back and watch all of Chubb's reps against Tunsil this year. My main takeaway? The Commanders should really get that extension done with Tunsil ASAP https://t.co/vA4RpeLjjQ

— Mark Bullock (@MarkBullockNFL) February 16, 2026

---

aBit o’Twitter​

You guys weren't subtle

• 93% want Treylon Burks back
• 90% want Chris Paul back

The "Power Slot" and "Pass Pro" arguments won out.

Since we're bringing people back… I've got another name. He knows the culture, he's cheap (~$2M), and he solves the speed issue.

Time for a… pic.twitter.com/duK4JQdZlO

— David Harrison (@DHarrison82) February 16, 2026

If Deebo Samuel signs elsewhere, his projected market value is in the area that could net the Commanders a 4th-round compensatory pick in 2027. Of course, the free agents Washington signs matter, which makes Brandon Aiyuk (once released), Tyreek Hill, and Bradley Chubb all the… https://t.co/g8zxLigpHU

— David Harrison (@DHarrison82) February 16, 2026

Deeb Samuel, Bobby Wagner, Von Miller, Jonathan Jones, and Marcus Mariota could get contracts with other teams that would be valuable enough to warrant a compensatory pick. No guarantee, of course, and I won't pretend to be a comp pick expert, but there's more than one or two,… https://t.co/FPizupplHw

— David Harrison (@DHarrison82) February 16, 2026

Mississippi State's Brenen Thompson is the twitchiest mover in the WR class. Big play waiting to happen. Will be a Top-50 player on my board pic.twitter.com/aI1GOYroit

— Mike Renner (@mikerenner_) February 16, 2026

Idc what round Kaelon Black gets drafted — he is an NFL RB.

He’s exactly the type of guy west coast coaches LOVE. Reliable in pass protection, understanding of the scheme, yards after contact and can catch out of the backfield.

David Montgomery vibes.pic.twitter.com/HtbjR9vXti

— Kurt Benkert (@KurtBenkert) February 17, 2026

There’s a narrative that Vega Ioane (320+ lbs) is strictly a mauler and not a fit for zone / not impactful on the move.

The tape says otherwise. Plenty of reps this year showing functional mobility, angles, and second-level effectiveness. pic.twitter.com/yLxFBF361h

— Brandon Thorn (@BrandonThornNFL) February 16, 2026

This is wild to me. Mike Rutenberg started w/ #Redskins in 2003 (same as me) as an intern and later assistant to Joe Gibbs. Everyone was rooting for him but I bet no one saw a DC gig in his future. Players called him "Rudy" and yes, there was once a "Rudy" chant after practice. https://t.co/B08SHxDhSv

— Gary Fitzgerald 🎟 (@GaryRFitzgerald) February 16, 2026

Opponent's Made Field Goal % (2025)

97% – KC
95% – DEN
94% – DAL
93% – DET
92% – NO,BUF, CIN
91% – LV
90% – ARI
89% – TEN, LAC
88% – GB, CAR, BAL, NYJ
87% – PIT
86% – IND
84% – LAR, NYG
83% – JAX, MIA, PHI, NE
82% – CLE
81% – ATL, SEA, WAS
80% – TB, MIN
77% – CHI
<huge gap>
67%…

— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) February 16, 2026

Awesome old footage of Tre Johnson defending Brad Johnson in a melee during the Redskins/Lions 2000 Wild Card Game. Crazy to think Tre's now gone. pic.twitter.com/umwgTrzvJa

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) February 16, 2026

---

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/daily-slo...-coaching-at-lsu-not-joining-commanders-staff

 

[Washington Commanders]

We’re hiring: Team Site producer, Hogs Haven

Dec 14, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Washington Commanders fans react during the fourth quarter against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images | Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

SB Nation is excited to share a new job posting for Hogs Haven: Team Site Producer.

This is a new position that will oversee Hogs Haven, shaping our daily coverage of the Commanders, growing the audience here – that’s you, reading this – and helping our team of writers to continue delivering smart Commanders coverage.

You can view a description of the role at the link here.

We’re looking for candidates with experience in digital sports media coverage, audience growth and community engagement. Experience with social video and podcasting is a plus. The role is open to everyone so we encourage anyone who’s interested to apply, even those who may not meet every requirement.

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/washingto...867/were-hiring-team-site-producer-hogs-haven

 

[Washington Commanders]

Do the Commanders have the personnel for a 3-4 defense?

ARLINGTON, TX - OCTOBER 19: Daron Payne #94 of the Washington Commanders celebrates during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Field on October 19, 2025 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) | Getty Images

In his introductory presser, newly appointed Washington Commanders defensive coordinator Daronte Jones was asked about what scheme he intended to implement. His answer: “It’s not how they line up, it’s how they wind up.”

This left fans wondering what they might see come September.

#Commanders DC Daronte Jones on what defense he’ll run (3-4/4-3)

"It's not how they line up, it's how they wind up."

— brandon (@JayDanielsMVP) February 10, 2026

I know Jones is all about putting his players in the best possible situations to be successful and tailoring his scheme to fit the talent he has. Jones was Brian Flores’ top lieutenant in Minnesota where they ran an aggressive, one-gapping 3-4 hybrid. He does have experience in both even and odds fronts, so I wanted to take a look at where and how our current personnel may best be used.

---

First, let me start out by saying that although we may not have “ideal” personnel for the 3-4 at the moment, we still have free agency and the draft to add pieces if that’s the direction Jones chooses to go.

Now that that’s out of the way, let’s look at the pieces we do have, and project how they could best fit into a new scheme.

Interior Defensive Line:​

• Daron Payne: Payne has played in an odd-front before, both as a zero-technique and as a 4i. That being said, his strength is using his suddenness, strong hands and power to abuse interior offensive linemen. He’s fully capable of taking on double teams and keeping those behind him clean in the run game, but he’s at his best when he’s used in a 3-technique or in a 1i where his up-field burst can take over.
• Javon Kinlaw: Kinlaw is scheme-versatile and can excel in any interior spot across the defensive front, including 4i/5-technique. He has the strength to control two gaps and the athleticism and ability to make himself skinny and shoot a gap. He’s a great chess piece for Jones to move around along this new defensive front.
• Jer’Zhan Newton: Newton is at his best when he’s in an attacking, one-gap system, that allows him to use his quickness to penetrate the gap and cause havoc in the opposing backfield. He would not be used as effectively if he’s asked to 2-gap or play as a zero-technique over the center. I don’t think he’d do well as a 4i/5-technique defensive end in an odd front.
• Ricky Barber: At 6’1” 295, Barber in an undersized 3-technique who relies on speed and quickness to penetrate gaps. He can be easy to control when opposing offensive linemen get their hands on him and he lacks the lower-body strength to effectively take on double-teams. He’s best in a one-gap, up-field attacking defense that doesn’t expose his weaknesses inside.

EDGE:​

• Dorance Armstrong: At 6’4” and almost 260 lbs, Armstrong has the look of a 4-3 defensive end. His long arms and almost 7’ overall wingspan lend itself to the position. There have been times where he’s been asked to drop into coverage, but let’s not kid ourselves – that’s not his strong suit. He lacks the fluidity, hip flexion and awareness to effectively drop. He’s best when pinning back his ears and getting up-field.
• Javontae Jean-Baptiste: Jean-Baptiste is built very similarly to Armstrong. Both are long, linear athletes with decent burst. Like Armstrong, Javontae doesn’t have very fluid hips, so asking him to drop into coverage may be taking away from his strengths as a pass rusher. He’s best suited in an even front where he can play as a 7 or 9-technique defensive end.

Linebackers:​

• Jordan Magee: Magee is a prototypical run-and-hit WILL linebacker who can play sideline-to-sideline, shoot gaps, drop into zone and carry the seam. He lacks awareness in zone drops but that could come with more time and better coaching. He’s a solid tackler but is not great at shedding blocks at the point of attack.
• Frankie Luvu: Luvu is a tweener. He’s not great in the open field but excels on blitzes (something Jones likes to do with his linebackers). He will struggle at times getting outside the C-gap on zone runs but will flash in the gaps on interior runs. He could be best used as a situational SAM.
• Kain Medrano: Medrano was known for his coverage coming out of UCLA and had some concerns pre-draft about his tackling. Those concerns showed up a bit in the preseason as he was outplayed by his former Bruin teammate Ale Kaho. He has a ton of athletic upside and if he can come into camp with some much needed added weight, he may see an increase in playing time.
• Ale Kaho: Kaho really impressed me with his play in the preseason. he showed great striking ability, excellent open-field tackling and looked extremely comfortable in coverage. He has a different body type than Medrano, but similar athleticism. He has the ability to stack the point of attack and shed blocks to get to the ball carrier.

---

What I believe would work best:​

I absolutely expect us to add parts to this defense both in free agency and the draft. However, if Daronte Jones wishes to incorporate guys like Payne, Kinlaw, Newton, Armstrong, Luvu and Magee into his new scheme, I feel they fit much better in a base 4-3 than they would a 3-4.

I can see a hybrid even-front where Payne and Kinlaw are both interchangeable as the 1- and 3-techniques. Newton would be a rotational guy at 3-technique where he could use his quickness to abuse slower, less athletic guards.

Armstrong should slot in as a 4-3 defensive end playing either a true 7-techniue or a wide-9. I think we can expect Jean-Baptiste to do the same on a rotational basis.

Magee should have a pretty prominent role in this new defense. If he earns a starting position, I believe that will be as an 4-3 run-and-hit WILL. Medrano and Kaho are unknowns to me at this point, but both have the desired athletic profile to be contributors.

Luvu is the wild-card here. Jones mentioned him and his athletic traits in his opening presser. He’s at his best when he is going forward, so here is where the hybrid part can come in. I can see some looks where he is walked up to the line of scrimmage in an UNDER front flanking an EDGE. I can also see him in a more traditional SAM linebacker role where Jones will blitz him from all over the formation. What we really don’t want/need is Luvu being forced into coverage too often as defensive coordinators will pick up on this quickly and expose him.

---

The 3-4 alternative:​

If Jones does bring in elements of the 3-4 front, it will require some added pieces – the most important ones coming at EDGE and on the interior where a true space-eating nose tackle is needed.

Some folks have opined that Luvu may be able to act as a 3-4 OLB, but if you remember last season, he did not look good at all when he played as an EDGE.

Below is a look at how our CURRENT personnel could fit into a 3-4 base:

• OLB: Armstrong (dropping into coverage is not his strength)
• DE: Kinlaw
• NT: Payne (he can play here, but not his strength)
• DE: Newton (I don’t like him as a 4i/5 as he lacks the length to play against OTs)
• OLB: Free agent or draft pick needed
• MIKE: Magee
• JACK: Luvu

*Ideally, if we went to a base 3-4, we would need two big-bodied interior defensive tackles to play zer0-technique, at least one more traditional 3-4 OLB, and a defensive end with both length and weight. I also feel we would target a true MIKE linebacker and let Magee play as the JACK. This also leaves Luvu without a true position.

---

Free agent/NFL draft teaser:​

4-3 Hybrid:

• EDGE: Armstrong/Jean-Baptiste
• DT: Payne/Newton
• DT: Kinlaw/Barber
• EDGE: Arvell Reese (RD1 pick #7)/Arnold Ebiketie (FA)
• MIKE: Quay Walker (FA)/Ale Kaho
• WILL: Jordan Magee/Kain Medrano
• SAM/Hybrid: Luvu

*In this hybrid even front I have two players that Daronte Jones can use as chess pieces to move around his defense – Arvell Reese and Frankie Luvu. I can also see some scenarios where Kain Medrano or Tyler Owens are used as that “Big Nickel” ala Nick Emmanwori in Seattle.

I would absolutely do backflips if we signed Arnold Ebiketie and drafted Arvell Reese!

Speed
Twitch
Bend
Versatility
Youth pic.twitter.com/rZPa5ngbKa

— Mark Tyler (Hogs Haven) (@Tiller56) February 17, 2026

---

It will be fun to watch this staff navigate through free agency and the NFL draft. I think both will give us a better idea of what type of defense we could see come fall.

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/washingto...mmanders-have-the-personnel-for-a-3-4-defense

 

[Washington Commanders]

Daily Slop: 18 Feb 26 – Upgrading the Commanders’ roster; which players should Washington sign in rapidly-approaching NFL free agency?

GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - NOVEMBER 24: Quay Walker #7 of the Green Bay Packers celebrates after recording a sack in the first quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Lambeau Field on November 24, 2024 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Commanders links​

Articles​

Bullock’s Film Room (subscription)

Commanders Free Agent Fits: Wide Receiver​

I will state up front that I’m not sure how aggressive the Commanders will be in free agency for a wide receiver. My gut feeling is that the team will take a shot on Brandon Aiyuk whenever the 49ers decide to release him.

But in a scenario where Aiyuk doesn’t happen, the Commanders do need a second reliable receiver to partner Terry McLaurin while still providing a pathway for young receivers like Luke McCaffrey and Jaylin Lane to compete for the third receiver role. So if GM Adam Peters decides not to bother with Aiyuk, what are some options he could consider in free agency? Let’s take a closer look.

High Profile: Alex Pierce, Colts, 25

The top two receivers currently scheduled to become free agents are George Pickens and Alec Pierce. It’s been widely reported that the Cowboys are going to franchise tag Pickens, which would then make Pierce the top option available. I think the Colts will also tag Pierce or work out a long term deal with him before he hits the open market, but they have a quarterback situation to work out with Daniel Jones and some other key players they need to consider too. So for now, we’ll say he’s available.

If Pierce is available, he’d offer something the Commanders lacked last season: a true deep threat. Terry McLaurin can obviously provide that but he was hurt for most of last season. Jaylin Lane has the speed to offer that threat in the future but he’s still developing. Pierce has gone through the development phase and is now a legitimate deep threat that can take the top off a defense and create explosive plays down the field.

The willingness to go over the middle and make tough catches in contested areas separates Pierce from other deep threats in the NFL. His 6-foot-3, 211 pound frame likely helps him feel confident in withstanding those punishing hits over the middle and the ball skills are clearly a strength too. As I said, PIerce’s route tree with the Colts was fairly basic but he was very effective at those routes and there’s clearly room for expansion there if desired.

Pierce could command a huge contract in free agency. Some are projecting him to get as high as $30 million per year on average, if not more. That would make him one of the highest paid receivers in the NFL. So it would be an expensive signing, but he would immediately add a legitimate deep threat opposite McLaurin if it were to happen.

Good Value: Romeo Doubs, Packers, 25

A perhaps slightly more realistic option is Packers receiver Romeo Doubs. Doubs is another taller receiver at 6-foot-2, 204 pounds and has experience playing in a system that shouldn’t be too dissimilar to what we’re expecting David Blough to run here in Washington this year. Compared to Pierce, Doubs isn’t quite the same deep threat but he’s a more detailed route runner with a wider variety of ways to get open.

I'd be shocked if Shaheed hits free agency. https://t.co/VFHuOZkzfe

— Eat Sleep Hail (@EatSleepHail) February 17, 2026

---

Commanders Wire

Commanders’ RB Jeremy McNichols lands on NFL top-10 list​

We often heard Bill’s name as he flashed as a sixth-round draft pick rookie and drew attention, and Rodriguez was a close second in yards to Croskey-Merritt, but McNichols was quietly the glue that held them together.

McNichols had just one touchdown in all of 2025, and the run was so good that the NFL deemed it the second-best run in the whole season.

The top 10 runs of the 2025 season pic.twitter.com/iildEYMLW5

— NFL (@NFL) February 16, 2026

---

Riggo’s Rag

FOX Sports insider believes Kyle Dugger could be the perfect fit for Commanders’ defense​

The Commanders will have a plan of attack. New defensive coordinator Daronte Jones’ input will be invaluable throughout the process. And based on the scheme he plans to run, an NFL insider believes Washington could strike gold with a forgotten name once touted as a future superstar.

Greg Auman of FOX Sports thought taking a swing at Kyle Dugger could be a risk worth taking for the Commanders. The well-rounded safety had an up-and-down year with the Pittsburgh Steelers, but he’s got the versatility to impact proceedings in all phases, which is precisely what Jones is looking for.

“[Kyle] Dugger, 29, was jettisoned from the Patriots’ defense in a pick swap as part of their 2025 turnaround, landing with the Steelers and voiding the last two years of a four-year, $58 million deal. He started nine games in Pittsburgh with two interceptions, one returned for a touchdown, so the question is what fraction of his old salary will he draw on the open market? A new coach in Pittsburgh means there isn’t an obvious landing spot for Dugger, a low-risk rebound signing.”Greg Auman

Dugger is fast and physical. He loves coming down to the second level to assist against the run. The 2020 second-round pick is impactful on blitzes and can hold his own in coverage. He might also be relatively cheap to acquire, if market projections are any indication.

---

Commanders Roundtable

Commanders 2026 franchise tag targets to watch around the league​

The next phase of the offseason officially struck on Tuesday with the window for teams to franchise tag players now officially underway, set to run through 4 PM ET on March 3. While the free agent market is expected to have several marquee names at a handful of positions, how the next three weeks unfold could have a notable impact on available targets who fill needs and add much-needed firepower on both sides of the ball for the Washington Commanders.

For Washington? It’s not as applicable of a question given the cap flexibility and long list of affordable free agents set to depart, though the bigger question will be whether the front office opts to be aggressive to re-sign starters like Deebo Samuel and Chris Paul.

For the rest of the NFL? What they decide to do will be the first domino for Washington, including arguably the most controversial of them all.

Running Backs: Travis Etienne Jr (Jacksonville), Breece Hall (New York Jets), Kenneth Walker (Seattle)

Wide Receiver: George Pickens (Dallas), Alec Pierce (Indianapolis), Wan’Dale Robinson (New York Giants)

Tight End: Kyle Pitts Sr. (Atlanta)

The window to designate franchise and transition players opens today. Below are the projected franchise tag numbers per @spotrac:

QB – $47.4M
WR – $28.0M
OL – $27.8M
LB – $27.6M
DT – $27.4M
DE – $26.7M
CB – $20.8M
S – $20.8M
TE – $16.0M
RB – $14.2M
K/P – $6.8M

— NFL Researcher (@NFL_Researcher) February 17, 2026

---

A to Z Sports

Commanders could lose QB Marcus Mariota in free agency this offseason, with weak options for QB-needy teams​

This is an awful offseason to need a quarterback with a very weak free agency group and a very limited 2026 NFL Draft class as well.

PFF has veteran QB Marcus Mariota as the No. 68 overall free agent this offseason, and he’s in the top three or four realistic options for a team this offseason.

o. 68 overall free agent this offseason, and he’s in the top three or four realistic options for a team this offseason.

Green Bay Packers QB Malik Willis will be the top option in free agency, and then teams are stuck with Daniel Jones and Mariota. Mariota could be a one-year bridge QB for a team that still drafts a QB prospect, and he could help mentor them as he did for Jayden Daniels.

The QB class is top-heavy with Fernando Mendoza projected to go No. 1 overall to the Las Vegas Raiders, and the rest is a wildcard.

It’s starting to seem "inevitable" that Colts QB Anthony Richardson will request a trade from Indianapolis this offseason as they plan to move forward with Daniel Jones as their starting quarterback when he can return from a torn Achilles, per ESPN's Stephen Holder.

Richardson… pic.twitter.com/FhaPFWs5yK

— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) February 17, 2026

The 2027 QB class has a chance to be really good.

Headliners: Arch Manning, Dante Moore, Brendan Sorsby, Lanorris Sellers, Trinidad Chambliss. Maybe somebody else makes a leap (Darian Mensah, Julian Sayin, CJ Carr).

Makes you wonder if teams may play waiting game in 2026.

— Grant Paulsen (@granthpaulsen) February 18, 2026

---

Mock Draft Madness 3.0@Zoomph | #RaiseHail

— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) February 18, 2026

---

Podcasts & videos​

2026 NFL Draft Preview, Who to Go for in Free Agency & Power Rankings | Get Loud | Commanders​

---

MEGA NFC East Preview + Waaaaaaay Too Early Predictions | Podcast | Washington Commanders | NFL​

---

NFC East links​

Big Blue View

NY Giants free agency 2026: 5 tight ends New York could consider​

Chig Okonkwo, Tennessee Titans

The 26-year-old spent his rookie contract in a tumultuous overall offensive environment. The 6-3, 238-pound tight end played 2,402 snaps through his career, with 600-plus snaps in each of his last three seasons for Tennessee. He aligned 46.7% of the time in the slot and 13.9% out wide, with just a 35.5% in-line snap rate.

He caught more than 50 passes in each of his last three seasons. He finished his rookie contract with 194 catches on 262 targets for 2,017 yards with eight touchdowns and an average of 10.4 yards per reception. He averaged a 58.8% contested catch rate (20 of 34) with 13 total drops and 14 penalties committed.

Spotrac.com lists Okonkwo’s market value at $7.9 million as his average annual salary. His specific skill-set fits what many teams are looking for — a field-stretching athletic threat who is comfortable operating out of the slot and playing in-line. He’s not a dynamic blocker, though, but has a valuable skill set, nonetheless.

---

Big Blue View

NY Giants 2026 NFL Draft scouting report: Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana​

Omar Cooper Jr. projects as a starting slot receiver at the NFL level, and a likely Day 2 pick. He can probably play in any offense commonly called in the NFL, but his upside is likely greatest in catch-and-run offenses like those run by disciples of Kyle Shanahan or Sean McVay.

Cooper is competitive and has the ability to be a reliable outlet on 3rd downs, however he’ll likely shine when given the opportunity to pick up yards after the catch. And while he doesn’t have the raw speed to be a consistent deep or home run threat, his quickness, agility, and explosiveness should allow him to routinely pick up chunk yardage. In that, he bears a certain resemblance to former Giant Victor Cruz.

From The Crimson Quarry

He excels at winning matchups off the line and picking up yards after the catch with a combination of strength and elusiveness in the open field. Additionally, he’s hauled in plenty of acrobatic, difficult catches in each of his seasons as a contributor. He’s got legit NFL tools.

---

NFL.com

One roster move each NFC team should make during the 2026 NFL offseason​

Philadelphia Eagles – 2025 record: 11-6

• Keep Jaelan Phillips in Philly.

GM Howie Roseman has several big decisions to make this offseason as we head to free agency. Keeping Phillips from leaving town is No. 1 in my book. From the moment the pass rusher arrived in Philadelphia, the defense hit another level. In Week 10 onward, Phillips led the Eagles with 34 QB pressures after the unit had struggled to get after the passer consistently while dealing with injuries. Philly would have to replace that production regardless, so keeping a player Roseman knows fits Vic Fangio’s scheme should be the priority, particularly given past misses (see: Bryce Huff). If you chose to make finding a long-term replacement for Lane Johnson your top priority, I understand.

---

The Ringer

Ranking the Top 50 NFL Free Agents of 2026​

3) Jaelan Phillips

The Eagles got away with highway robbery by acquiring Phillips from the Dolphins for a third-round pick at the trade deadline in November. His first two games in Philly came against two of the league’s better offensive tackles, the Packers’ Zach Tom and the Lions’ Penei Sewell, and Phillips still made his presence felt right away, with 12 pressures and a sack in his first two games. He has an ideal frame, great strength, and terrifying explosiveness, making him a dream fit as a stand-up rusher who can line up anywhere in Vic Fangio’s defense. Phillips can blow through and by tackles, and he often manhandles tight ends into the backfield when given the opportunity. Phillips ranked sixth in total pressures (41) after joining the Eagles in Week 10.

---

Blogging the Boys

Why the Cowboys choose caution over chaos when it comes to pushing cost into the future years​

The Dallas Cowboys enter yet another offseason where fans are clamoring for a massive spending spree. From the looming extension of George Pickens to shore up a top-notch receiving corps, to a potential blockbuster trade for Maxx Crosby to bolster the pass rush, as well as the never-ending desire for them to finally be aggressive in free agency, the idea of throwing down some serious cash is at an all-time high.

Advocates of this approach often point to restructuring current contracts as the simple solution to afford these stars, viewing the salary cap as a mere suggestion that can be manipulated at will. However, the reality of NFL front office management is far more complex than simply moving numbers from one column to another to free up space for that missing player who will take their team to the promised land.

This offseason, the Cowboys find themselves in a unique position of having the highest restructure potential in the league. They can clear up to $131 million in cap space through simple adjustments. Despite being roughly $29 million over the projected $304 million cap, they possess the tools to open the floodgates of spending simply by pushing base salaries into future years by converting them to bonus money.

While all those extra cap dollars make our eyes widen as we ponder the possibilities, flipping the switch to trigger maximum level restructures is a risky endeavor. That’s because today’s savings are tomorrow’s shackles.

One of the primary pitfalls of aggressive restructuring is roster rigidity. When a team converts base salary into a signing bonus, they are essentially making a serious commitment towards that player because the remaining bonus money accelerates if the player is cut or traded. This creates a situation where a team is all but forced to retain a potential declining veteran because it would cost more in cap space to move on than to keep them on the roster.

Future flexibility is another casualty of the win-now mentality. Every dollar pushed into future seasons is a dollar that cannot be used to sign a future commodity or retain a homegrown talent. Teams that overextend themselves find they have no room to breathe when a new need arises at a critical position.

Many will quickly point out that the salary cap is always increasing. Everyone knows this, and it’s why teams are okay about restructuring in the first place. But when you’re reallocating funds at a much higher rate than how the cap increases, that’s when you run into problems.

While the potential to create over $100 million in space is a powerful tool, the front office should use it wisely to ensure they do not become the next cautionary tale of cap mismanagement.

---

NFL league links​

Articles​

ESPN

Chiefs restructure Patrick Mahomes’ deal, create cap space​

The restructuring, first reported Wednesday by Over the Cap, converts $54.45 million of Mahomes’ 2026 salary into a signing bonus and lowers the star quarterback’s cap number to $34.65 million.

The Chiefs, who missed the playoffs in 2025 after reaching the Super Bowl in each of the three previous seasons, created $43.65 million in cap space. It marks the fourth consecutive year that Kansas City has restructured Mahomes’ contract.

The Chiefs entered the offseason more than $57 million over the cap and still will need to make some financial maneuvers after reworking Mahomes’ deal. Mahomes, who is recovering from knee surgery, initially was set to count for $78.2 million against the cap in 2026.

Under the terms of the restructured deal, Mahomes now will count for an additional $11 million against Kansas City’s cap each of the next four seasons, bringing his total cap number to $85 million for 2027, according to Over the Cap. The three-time Super Bowl MVP is a potential candidate for a contract extension before 2028, when his salary and cap number both drop significantly.

Star defensive lineman Chris Jones, who is set to count for nearly $45 million against the cap, is another candidate for a restructured deal. The Chiefs could potentially cut offensive lineman Jawaan Taylor, who has one year remaining on his four-year, $80 million deal. Other veteran players who are candidates to be released include Mike Danna, Drue Tranquill and Noah Gray.

---

Potential salary cap cuts between now and March 11th​

NFL.com

2026 NFL free agency: notable cut candidates​

Patrick Queen – Pittsburgh Steelers · LB

Queen was a Pro Bowler two years ago in his first season with Pittsburgh, and his numbers were somewhat similar across the board in 2025. He was second on the team in tackles with 120 and had eight tackles for loss, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. On the flip side, he earned just a 43.4 overall defensive grade from PFF, including an abysmal 32.4 coverage grade. His overall grade was 61st out of 67 linebackers with 500-plus snaps, and his coverage grade was 65th on that same list. According to Next Gen Stats, he allowed 57 catches for 591 yards, four touchdowns, a 107.6 passer rating and a 50.6% success rate in coverage. The Steelers are in good cap shape, so this might not be a necessary move, but cutting Queen before June 1 would save Pittsburgh $13.3 million to help build an offense to new head coach Mike McCarthy’s specifications. Pittsburgh could instead/also cut Jalen Ramsey for $19.5 million in savings, but his move to safety earned him a Pro Bowl nod and his leadership on the defense might earn him the Pittsburgh roster spot over Queen.

Darnell Mooney – Atlanta Falcons · WR

After a solid campaign in 2024 — 64 catches for 992 yards and a career-high five touchdowns — Mooney fell off the face of the earth in 2025. Despite playing 15 games for the Falcons, he totaled 32 catches for 443 yards and one touchdown, very consistent with his numbers in both 2022 and 2023 with Chicago. It was a stark reminder that Mooney is probably more of a low-volume, deep-ball specialist than a true WR2, which makes his $18.4 million cap hit in 2026 a little hard to swallow. Atlanta should build its offense around Bijan Robinson and Drake London — there’s also potential for a Kyle Pitts extension this offseason — so it’s unlikely Mooney fits into that picture at his current price point.

T.J. Hockenson – Minnesota Vikings · TE

Hockenson totaled 155 catches, 1,479 yards and eight touchdowns over 25 games with the Vikings in 2022 and 2023, playing at or near the level that earned him two Pro Bowl selections in Detroit. Unfortunately, over his 25 games since the start of 2024, the veteran tight end has totaled just 92 catches for 893 yards and three touchdowns. Those numbers all fall short of his 2023 production alone. So, while the four-year, $66 million extension he signed just before 2023 initially seemed like a score for the front office, it’s since become a burden. Hockenson carries a $21.3 million cap hit in 2026 — highest at his position across the league — and Minnesota can save $8.9 million by releasing him before June 1 or $16 million if it makes him a post-June 1 cut. Both options are viable, but keeping him on the payroll with an already troubling cap situation and declining production is not ideal.

Cole Kmet – Chicago Bears · TE

Ben Johnson’s offense used 12 personnel at the sixth-highest rate in the league in 2025 (32.5%, tied with the Giants), so utilizing the TE combo of Kmet and dynamic rookie Colston Loveland made sense. However, after watching Loveland’s breakout down the stretch — and the corresponding drop in Kmet’s numbers — it becomes tougher to justify Kmet’s $11.6 million cap hit in 2026. Chicago, which currently sits $5.3 million in the red, can move on for a whopping $8.4 million in cap savings. Kmet enjoyed his best campaigns in 2022 and ’23, and he’s largely average as a run blocker. Combine his decreasing production with the price point and Kmet doesn’t make much sense as a TE2 behind Loveland — even in an offense that often uses two TEs. I’d expect the Bears to move on and potentially sign a player like Tommy Tremble or Darnell Washington in free agency.

Tremaine Edmunds – Chicago Bears · MLB

Edmunds remained a solid and consistent linebacker in his eighth NFL season (and third with the Bears), extending his unbroken streak of seasons with 100+ tackles along with four interceptions and a fumble recovery. If he was making solid starter money — say $10 million a year — there’d be little to no reason to move on (except that Chicago is $5.3 million over the cap right now). Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Edmunds’ AVV of $18 million is third-highest at his position, and his cap hit of $17.4 million is fourth-highest. Most importantly, the Bears can save a monster $15 million against the cap by letting him go, with just $2.4 million in dead money.

Kenny Clark – Dallas Cowboys · NT

After trading Micah Parsons for Clark and two first-round picks, and emphasizing the importance of a better run defense, Jerry Jones and Co. might feel obligated to keep the 30-year old defensive tackle out of stubbornness. It’s worth noting he earned a 53.7 run grade from PFF in 2025 (40th out of 74 interior DL with 500+ snaps) and had just 21 run stops, fewest since his 2016 rookie season, according to NGS. Most importantly, however, the Cowboys are $30.1 million over the cap (third-worst in the league) and cutting Clark would free up all $21.5 million of his 2026 cap hit. The Cowboys also have Quinnen Williams and Osa Odighizuwa on the interior, who both carry cap hits over $20 million as well, with Williams guaranteed to stay as a cornerstone of the defense and Odighizuwa’s money far tougher to ditch this offseason.

---

International games​

ESPN

49ers named as home team for 2026 Mexico City game​

The San Francisco 49ers‘ international travel in 2026 will not only take them Down Under to Australia but also to Mexico City.

December’s trip to Mexico means they will have two international games in the same regular season for the first time in franchise history. They will face the Rams at Australia’s Melbourne Cricket Ground, a game the league announced during Super Bowl week.

The NFL announced Wednesday that the Niners will be the home team for a regular-season game at Estadio Banorte in Mexico City next season. At his pre-Super Bowl news conference, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said the game will take place in December. The date, kickoff time and opponent will be announced when the full NFL schedule is released in the spring.

The 49ers last played in Mexico City in 2022, a 38-10 win against the Arizona Cardinals, and played there in 2005.

The Mexico City game is one of a league-record nine international contests slated for 2026. In addition to Mexico City and Melbourne, the league also has scheduled games in Paris, Munich, Madrid, Rio de Janeiro and three in London.

The 49ers are playing in Melbourne and Mexico City, and the Saints are playing in Paris.

That leaves Rio, Munich, Madrid and London still in play for the Commanders. https://t.co/Bhn6JvDXRC

— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) February 18, 2026

The Lions, Falcons, and Commanders are the last three teams expected to be home games for international teams.

We are waiting on the home teams to be announced for the games involving Munich, Madrid, and London (2x).

— Jamual (@LetMualTellit) February 18, 2026

---

Commanders uniform update​

Everything we know about the upcoming Washington Commanders redesign so far… with new info & info from my report last October

– Exclusive: sources tell me a glossy helmet finish will replace matte
– Permanent SB-Era “throwbacks” as primaries
– 99% certainty of no new… https://t.co/ziO4NJPdqT pic.twitter.com/dcbGYDOO51

— Zach Cohen (@ZachCohenFB) February 18, 2026

---

Discussion topics​

ESPN

2026 NFL free agency: Best team fits for the top 50 players​

13. Quay Walker, LB

Best team fit: Washington Commanders

With veteran linebacker Bobby Wagner also hitting free agency, Walker could fill a need for the Commanders. After posting 128 tackles with the Packers last season, he has the traits to fit really well in Dan Quinn’s defense. Paired with Frankie Luvu, Walker could be set up on pressures, and he has the second-level speed to track the ball or close throwing windows. Washington would get younger and faster on defense with this move.

20. Isaiah Likely, TE

Best team fit: Washington Commanders

With the Commanders making the transition to new offensive coordinator David Blough, Likely could replace free agent Zach Ertz as the middle-of-the-field target for quarterback Jayden Daniels. Likely would bring more upside with his catch-and-run ability. A move player in the formation, Likely would also be schemed to create underneath one-on-ones. He had 27 catches for 301 yards and a touchdown with Baltimore last season.

---

The Athletic (paywall)

2026 NFL Draft consensus rankings​

Wild NFL Draft scenario:

We might see more safeties drafted in Round 1 than quarterbacks and running backs combined.

Caleb Downs, Emmanuel McNeil-Warren and Dillon Thieneman all rank inside my top 25.

— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) February 17, 2026

---

aBit o’Twitter​

The ultimate roster-building question for the #Commanders: Floor vs. Ceiling.

Do they keep the stability of Jacob Martin for a projected $2.8M?

OR…

Do they take a "big swing" on a younger and more explosive option like Ohio State's Arvell Reese?

What is your move? … pic.twitter.com/8iTYz4Lm3U

— David Harrison (@DHarrison82) February 17, 2026

Watch Rashan Gary in GB as a potential cut candidate

6’5” 275 pound EDGE who is 28. Carries a $28M cap hit for 2026 but saves GB $19.5M if cut with a post June 1 designation

This may have been part of the thought process when they traded for Parsons. Also have Van Ness.

— Mark Tyler (Hogs Haven) (@Tiller56) February 17, 2026

The #Commanders desperately need defensive help. However, it doesn't necessarily have to be EDGE.

If Washington elected to go CB1 in the draft, who should they take?

Mansoor Delane or Jermod McCoy? Let's talk about it.#RaiseHail @DougMcCrayNFL @IC_Draft pic.twitter.com/FEq93XtexK

— George Carmi (@Gcarmi21) February 17, 2026

I would absolutely do backflips if we signed Arnold Ebiketie and drafted Arvell Reese!

Speed
Twitch
Bend
Versatility
Youth pic.twitter.com/rZPa5ngbKa

— Mark Tyler (Hogs Haven) (@Tiller56) February 17, 2026

The Top Plays of the 2025 Season: 50-41 pic.twitter.com/5FQmUPByZB

— NFL (@NFL) February 17, 2026

games with 0 offensive TDs since 2015

34 – NYJ
33
32
31
30
29
28
27
26
25
24
23
22
21 – NYG
20
19
18 – CAR, CHI
17 – TEN
16 – LAR
15 – CLE, JAX, LV, DAL
14 – DEN, NO, HOU
13 – ARI,MIA
12 – ATL, LAC, SF
11 – WAS, NE, CIN, SEA, MIN
10 – BUF, DET, KC
9 – IND
8 – PIT, BAL
7 -…

— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) February 18, 2026

Notice for the 2026 draft cycle:

I will be covering the draft as I have the last 13 years, posting #RAS as I get the data entered and scores calculated. However, due to various physical and mental health concerns (don't worry, it's not whatever horrible thing you just imagined,…

— RAS.football (@MathBomb) February 17, 2026

Robert Duvall
1931–2026

Robert Duvall admitted that his portrayal of “Gus” McCrae in Lonesome Dove was his favorite role of his career. Before filming started, Duvall visited legendary NFL quarterback Sammy Baugh. Duvall based his character's mannerisms, and gestures on Baugh. pic.twitter.com/1FijSiH6qk

— Wes J. Sheffield (@wesjsheffield) February 18, 2026

RIP Robert Duval

"I love the smell of napalm in the morning" pic.twitter.com/5TZVjxFpZb

— Wu Tang is for the Children (@WUTangKids) February 16, 2026

---

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/daily-slo...n-sign-in-rapidly-approaching-nfl-free-agency

 

[Washington Commanders]

Daily Slop – 19 Feb 26 – Jayden Daniels: “I love Eagles fans”

PHILADELPHIA, PA - JANUARY 11: An Eagles fan braves the cold during the NFL Wild Card game between the San Fransisco 49ers and the Philadelphia Eagles on January 11th, 2026 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, PA. (Photo by Terence Lewis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Commanders links​

Articles​

Pro Football Talk

Jayden Daniels: I love Philly fans, closest thing to playing in a college environment​

Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels has played two games in Philadelphia in his NFL career, losing both. He thinks there’s no tougher place in the NFL to play.

Daniels said in an interview with Sports Illustrated that the fans in Philadelphia deserve credit for the passion they bring, which only makes it harder on opposing quarterbacks.

“I love Eagles fans. I love Eagles fans,” Daniels said. “They just embody what Philly brings. To be able to go out there and play against them, it’s kind of just that thing. Their environment is kind of like the closest thing you can get to a college environment.”

Asked if the fans in Philadelphia give him more fuel, Daniels answered, “For sure.”

“If you go out there, you can beat Philly in Philly, that’s a different type, but their fans bring it,” Daniels said. “Especially as we’re rivals with them in the NFC East. I love playing against them.”

Winning in Philadelphia is high on Daniels’ list of goals for 2026.

Jayden Daniels says he loves Eagles fans pic.twitter.com/SZVFsAZoF6

— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) February 18, 2026

---

ESPN

John Keim: What to expect from Commanders’ offense in 2026​

More under center

In two seasons under Kingsbury, Washington ran the fewest amount of plays from under center in the NFL. In fact, the Commanders’ 193 snaps were 157 fewer than the next lowest, Cincinnati — and it was 919 less than the No. 1 team, Detroit.

Quinn wanted a different philosophy moving forward — more run emphasis; more ability to create explosive plays; less pressure on quarterback Jayden Daniels to save the day each game.

That led to Kingsbury’s exit and the quick promotion of Blough. Both Quinn and Blough pointed out that the teams that advanced far in the postseason all played more from under center. A year ago, under Kingsbury, Washington reached the NFC Championship Game doing the opposite. That season, Kingsbury’s offense finished fifth in points and efficiency, fourth in offensive EPA (expected points added), third in rushing and 10th in time of possession.

Washington also ranked just 22nd in yards per pass attempt on play-action in 2024. Though the team fared much better last year overall (ranking ninth in yards per attempt), when the score differential was within a touchdown, they ranked 22nd in that category.

The organization says the goal for the offense in 2026 is to create more explosive plays.

Episode 1,264 – Guest: @JohnKosko3 of @PFF on the value of more under-center snaps for Jayden Daniels, including why they make play-action more effective. How much of an adjustment will this be for him? Thoughts on David Blough's offense will be. And more.https://t.co/gMXszGNFD2

— Al Galdi (@AlGaldi) February 19, 2026

Less no-huddle

Blough has learned…that it’s better to huddle. Washington ran more plays of no-huddle offense than anyone in the NFL the past two seasons — 1,279 such plays, or 83 more plays than the next three teams combined.

That said, the Commanders did not always move at a fast pace with this look. They snapped the ball within 25 seconds of the previous play 10.4% of the time over the past two years. They did run 429 plays within 35 seconds, most in the NFL; 33% of the time they were in no-huddle.

“It’s hard to ignore how much stress and no huddle — the tempo element — puts on a defense,” Blough said, acknowledging its utility.

“If we look up next year and we’re at 20%, I’d be OK with that,” Blough ended.

---

Commanders.com

Logan Paulsen’s Top offensive lineman prospects in 2026 draft​

The opinions expressed in this article do not reflect those of the team.

1. Caleb Lomu, Utah

One thing: “I like him a lot. I think he’s got great foot speed. I think he understands leverages and pass protection. There are some times where I wonder about his total place strength. He gets a little bit high, gets a little bit disinterested, but I really like the overall athlete. And I think he’s better put together. I don’t wanna say the play strength was a concern, but he’s well put together. It’s not like a glaring issue. So, I think he’s a very, very solid prospect.”

1. Blake Miller, Clemson

One thing: “He’s a former high school wrestler. He’s got 35-inch arms. He is a nasty, nasty human being. Like he loves to finish. He can run. I think he’s got good feet. He’s a little bit duck footed. So it looks a little bit awkward. But he’s quick to the angle. He is quick to the landmark. I think in pass protection, that’s where I get a little bit worried about him. Because he’s got long arms, you can see the length. But he tends to kind of like headbutt and kind of try to bear hug you as opposed to like keeping you using his length. But in terms of football character, at least based on the film, he’s the big, nasty, man.”

1. Monroe Freeling, Georgia

One thing: “I actually think is a pretty gosh darn good mover for being 6-7. He does a great job in pass protection. He uses his length. He gets his hands out there; he stuns guys. He’s pretty good in combinations. There are times where he gets to the second level and he does not bend super well. He’s hitting guys with the bottom of his face mask as opposed to his face or the crown of his helmet. And at the next level, that could be problematic. But the thing that I always told myself is if you see the ability to pass protect at a high level, you gotta value that guy.”

New episode of Take Command just dropped with @LoganPaulsenNFL. We discussed the possibility of signing Bradley Chubb / Tyreek Hill. pic.twitter.com/KswRu6zzUG

— Grant Paulsen (@granthpaulsen) February 18, 2026

---

A to Z Sports

Commanders have three cut candidates who could free up more salary cap space before free agency spending spree​

Quan Martin, Safety

This one might surprise some people, but I wouldn’t be shocked if they moved on from Quan Martin. Head coach Dan Quinn benched Martin after he gave up the long touchdown to Dallas Cowboys WR KaVontae Turpin on Christmas Day, and that’s with the secondary as bad as it was. Martin showed some flashes in 2024, but 2025 was as bad as it gets.

The Commanders will have plenty of opportunities to upgrade with a loaded safety draft class and a deep group of free agents as well. Moving on from Martin saves the Commanders $3.6 million in 2026, and carries a dead cap hit of just $638,695. The Commanders can’t afford to have a liability in the secondary anymore.

View Link

---

Riggo’s Rag

Commanders’ relationship with Bobby Wagner has seemingly run its course​

Daronte Jones’ defense promises to be aggressive, violent, explosive, and ruthless under his leadership. His personnel needs an injection of youth and dynamism for this hire to work, which could leave future first-ballot Pro Football Hall of Fame linebacker Bobby Wagner on the outside looking in.

Wagner’s been a fantastic presence in Washington over the last two years, but this seems like a good time for both parties to go their separate ways. Greg Auman of FOX Sports agrees, projecting the former Utah State standout to keep playing with a return to the Los Angeles Rams in free agency.

“[Bobby] Wagner is also years past people saying it’s amazing he was still playing. He had 162 tackles for Washington in 2025, with 4.5 sacks and two interceptions, missing Pro Bowl honors (he’s made it 10 times already). A new coordinator for the Commanders could mean Wagner is signing elsewhere, a future Hall of Famer still making plays on a consistent basis. Could he return to the Seahawks or Rams and try to chase a second ring on the way out?”Greg Auman

The newly crowned NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year still managed to achieve 162 tackles last season at 35 years old. Wagner was a force in between the tackles and on blitzes. But given the scheme Jones plans to install, his lack of athleticism and inconsistent coverage make a departure from Washington more likely than another deal.

7 Players who could reunite with Adam Peters on the Commanders in 2026​

Spencer Burford​

If veteran left guard Chris Paul returns to the Washington Commanders on a new deal, all five of their starting offensive linemen will be back. That is a massive boost for continuity purposes, and it gives new coordinator David Blough one less thing to worry about during his critical transition to the play-calling role.

That said, their backup options are lacking. Andrew Wylie, George Fant, Trent Scott, and Lucas Niang are all free agents and might not return. Nick Allegretti may be a salary-cap cut candidate, so general manager Adam Peters must start devising a list of reinforcements with proven experience.

Peters knows Spencer Burford well from their time together on the San Francisco 49ers. He was solid enough when tasked with starting duties last season. And at 25, there is enough scope to improve in the coming years.

Much will depend on the money involved and whether Burford, who plays on the interior but also has experience at tackle in college, is willing to accept a depth-chart role. But this looks like a realistic option if the Niners don’t keep him around.

Charles Omenihu​

Charles Omenihu is an interesting free agent going under the radar. He spent the best part of two years working with Peters on the San Francisco 49ers, and he’s been a steady rotational piece for the Kansas City Chiefs over the last three years. He’s never attained more than seven sacks in any season, but his 34 pressures from 55 percent of defensive snaps in 2025 showcase his ability to get opposing quarterbacks off their spot.

It’s easy to forget that Omenihu only recently turned 28, so this could be a cost-effective option to enhance the pass-rushing rotation if the Chiefs don’t re-sign him.

Curtis Robinson​

Robinson was acquired when Peters held an influential position in the San Francisco 49ers’ front office. He was used sparingly until this season, but an injury to Fred Warner gave him the opportunity he was looking for. If the Commanders are looking for a dependable performer with some much-needed momentum on his side, this could be a viable option for Washington’s depth chart.

Ben Bartch​

Adam Peters was in the San Francisco 49ers’ front office when they signed Ben Bartch in 2023. He’s been a backup almost ever since, but the flashes he displayed in limited involvement last season leave reasons for encouragement.

Bartch is best suited for the left guard position. The Commanders started Chris Paul there last season. He seizedhis final chance to carve out a role for himself. This couldn’t have come at a better time, and the player should get paid handsomely on a new deal in free agency.

Whether that’s in Washington or elsewhere remains to be seen. Peters should make him an offer, and even if he re-signs, Bartch could be a useful backup option. Especially considering Super Bowl winner Nick Allegretti as a potential salary-cap cut candidate.

Samson Ebukam​

Not every signing is going to be a megabucks deal or high-end draft pick. The Commanders need to make the minor moves count, which will enhance depth and allow the team to cope much better with injuries when they inevitably arise. There are some concerns, but Samson Ebukam has a connection to Peters and some useful athleticism to consider.

Ebukam looked like a productive prime was in the offing after securing 9.5 sacks with the Indianapolis Colts in 2023. Unfortunately, the pass-rusher missed the following year with a torn Achilles, denting his momentum drastically.

The Eastern Washington product returned to health and performed quite well in 2025, recording two sacks and 23 pressures on 43 percent of the Colts’ defensive snaps. Ebukam should be stronger next season, but he’d be a relatively cheap addition to the rotation with lofty upside attached.

---

Podcasts & videos​

On video with ⁦@Jordan_Reid⁩ talking about the Commanders’ draft. What they should do. Names to watch after the first round. More. ⁦@ESPNRichmond⁩ https://t.co/4llCCfOse8

— John Keim (@john_keim) February 19, 2026

---

NFC East links​

Blogging the Boys

A long list of key departures has contributed to the Cowboys rapid defensive descent​

The departure of Dan Quinn to Washington has been the greatest smoking gun as to why things have abruptly changed, but coaching only tells half the story. While Quinn’s aggressive nature and infectious energy turned around a broken unit, the sheer drain of talent has left the roster looking like a K-Mart department store. Some teams occasionally lose a superstar player, some suffer bad luck with a career-changing injury, or others just lose a few key contributors that turned out to be more costly than expected. In the case of the Cowboys defense, they’ve endured all of that, and to a great extent. And to make matters worse, the team’s response in filling those voids has consisted of underperforming draft picks, disappointing trades, and their go-to low-cost free agent signings.

In just a few short years, the defense of the Dallas Cowboys looks considerably different. pic.twitter.com/nAOPhuF72C

— Dan Rogers (@DannyPhantom24) February 16, 2026

---

NFL league links​

Articles​

ESPN

Paul Allen’s estate begins process of selling Super Bowl champ Seahawks​

Jody Allen has controlled the Seahawks and the Portland Trail Blazers as the estate’s chair in the wake of her brother’s death. Paul Allen’s will dictated that both teams were to eventually be sold, with all estate proceeds going to philanthropy.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell referred to that directive when asked during Super Bowl week about a potential Seahawks sale. He denied a Wall Street Journal report that the organization was fined $5 million due to its ownership structure not being in compliance with league rules. That fine was being held in abeyance, a source told ESPN’s Seth Wickersham.

It’s the first time in the Super Bowl era that a team has been put on the market shortly after playing in the championship game.

Estate of Paul G. Allen Begins Sale Process for Seattle Seahawks pic.twitter.com/Toj3CjClzP

— Seattle Seahawks (@Seahawks) February 18, 2026

Paul Allen's estate has officially begun the process of selling the Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks@Sportico values the franchise at $6.59 billion pic.twitter.com/i3OarfvOzo

— Lev Akabas (@LevAkabas) February 18, 2026

---

The Athletic (paywall)

Ian Rapoport’s future with NFL Network under ESPN: ‘No idea if it is going to happen’​

In April, ESPN and the NFL Network will be under the same Disney umbrella — Rapoport and Schefter will be teammates. How long that lasts is still to be determined, as Rapoport’s contract is up in May.

While Schefter and Rapoport engage in an almost daily post-off to be first on X, there is more to their jobs. The analogy that probably best describes how NFL Network is expected to live in an ESPN universe is the SEC Network. ESPN’s most popular subject will continue to be the NFL, but if you want non-stop coverage of the league, NFL Network will be available. Ultimately, between the two networks, there is going to be no shortage of on-air hits for the top insiders.

What ESPN executives are going to do about the expanded NFL reporting staff is still to be determined.

“Just so we are clear, I don’t know what is coming,” Rapoport said. “No one has told me, ‘It’s going to be like this. It’s going to be like that.’ There are a lot of things I don’t know. A lot of people don’t know, but I’m excited because ESPN is very good at what it does. From my understanding, it is going to be more football, more coverage, investing in NFL Network and making it as best as it could possibly be.

“If it is anything like ESPN and SEC Network, that would be great. SEC Network is awesome. ESPN’s coverage of college football is enhanced by it. If that is sort of the way it is, then I think that would be, that would be great. I don’t know what I’ll end up doing.”

---

Discussion topics​

NFL.com

NFL free agency: Eight players who could be misvalued in 2026​

Players who could be underpriced​

Kenneth Gainwell – Pittsburgh Steelers · RB

Gainwell is coming off a career-best 537 rushing yards with five TDs, while splitting duties with Jaylen Warren in Pittsburgh. His 47.4% success rate on rush attempts ranked sixth-best among all RBs (min. 100 carries). Gainwell proved his prowess as a receiving back in his first year with the Steelers, generating 486 yards — fifth-most among backs, behind only Christian McCaffrey, Bijan Robinson, Jahmyr Gibbs and De’Von Achane — with three scores on 73 catches. That dual-threat ability is extremely valuable. However, Gainwell could be overlooked on the open market. The reality that clubs don’t generally want to spend on the RB position and the deep pool of backs ticketed for free agency mean Gainwell could get lost in the shuffle.

Nakobe Dean – Philadelphia Eagles · LB

The former third-round pick owns the type of athleticism and playmaking that could get him paid this offseason. In four seasons in Philly, the off-ball linebacker proved he could get after the quarterback (7.5 sacks) and patrol the middle of the field. However, an extensive injury history could curtail his payday. The defender hasn’t played a full slate since 2017, missing 21 missed regular-season games over the past three seasons alone, and was out for most of Philly’s Super Bowl run in 2024. Teams generally shy away from spending big on players with long-term durability questions, which could put Dean on a short-term prove-it path.

Leo Chenal – Kansas City Chiefs · LB

The 25-year-old has never been in a full-time contributor in Kansas City’s defense, playing fewer than 550 snaps in each of his four seasons with the Chiefs. But in his rotational role, he flashed playmaking ability, plugged holes against the run, generated seven sacks and held his own in coverage (when asked). The former third-round pick is primed to find more responsibility in a new defense. Unfortunately, off-ball linebackers without every-down experience typically don’t have burgeoning markets. If he lands a full-time role, the return on investment, however, could be significant for his new club.

Arnold Ebiketie – Atlanta Falcons · Edge

The success of rookies Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. last season buried Ebiketie down the depth chart in Year 4. But Pearce’s recent arrest on five felony charges casts serious doubt on Pearce’s future, and it might be prudent for the Falcons to retain Ebiketie. Although the former second-round pick has generated just 16.5 career sacks over four campaigns, he possesses explosiveness off the edge that could thrive under new leadership in Atlanta or in new surroundings. Despite seeing a career-low 370 snaps in 2025, his 16.4% pressure rate was the best of his career, per Next Gen Stats. In a league always in need of pass-rush help, Ebiketie could be a steal on a short-term prove-it deal.

---

aBit o’Twitter​

DraftKings is the first of the legitimate sports books to put out NFL season win totals

Commanders 2026 O/U wins is 7.5 – thoughts? pic.twitter.com/vTP6Td4xTr

— Mitchell Tischler (@Mitch_Tischler) February 18, 2026

2026 NFL Win Totals open at @DKSportsbook:

ARI 4.5
ATL 6.5
BAL 10.5
BUF 10.5
CAR 6.5
CHI 9.5
CIN 9.5
CLE 6.5
DAL 8.5
DEN 9.5
DET 10.5
GB 10.5
HOU 9.5
IND 8.5
JAX 9.5
KC 10.5
LAC 10.5
LAR 10.5
LV 5.5
MIA 4.5
MIN 8.5
NE 10.5
NO 7.5
NYG 7.5
NYJ 5.5
PHI 10.5
PIT 8.5
SEA 10.5
SF 10.5… https://t.co/PX3k42ndOR

— Julian Edlow (@julianedlow) February 18, 2026

DraftKings stock is down over 50% in the past six months. So is FanDuel parent Flutter, and other gambling stocks are seeing red.

“Our stock is getting killed," $DKNG CEO Jason Robins said to FOS. "Which I don’t think is necessarily fair, but such is life. We have to prove it."

— Front Office Sports (@FOS) February 17, 2026

Left-Tackle (LT) Pressure Rate (%):

2025 Regular Season pic.twitter.com/Wep7fbveOx

— Daniel Rotman (@daniel_rotman15) February 18, 2026

According to a survey conducted by @BenStandig, Commanders players believe that Tyler Owens is the most athletic player on the team.

According to Standig, he edged out Laremy Tunsil by half a vote in the survey.#RaiseHail pic.twitter.com/zX9z1bVucy

— SleeperCommanders (@SleeperWSH) February 18, 2026

I know many pundits think they know better than @PFF but I don't…so I provide information.

In 2024 – Bobby Wagner had a 68.1 in pass coverage/100

Quay had a 48.8. #Commanders @Team980 https://t.co/BxvCMJ9gqL

— Chris Russell AKA the ! (@Russellmania621) February 18, 2026

The window for NFL teams to use franchise and transition tags on players opens today and runs through March 3. The most prominent candidates to be tagged include Daniel Jones and George Pickens.

— MarkMaske (@MarkMaske) February 17, 2026

The NFL Combine Tracker with all of my current scouting profiles is officially LIVE! There are still some to be written and edited, but they will be populated as they are finished. Bookmark the page and spread the word.https://t.co/pH1n82ztfG pic.twitter.com/gWu2VzZJP2

— Lance Zierlein (@LanceZierlein) February 18, 2026

Kirk Cousins offers insight on the Commanders' new QB coach D.J. Williams, with whom he worked in Atlanta, on The Kevin Sheehan Show. pic.twitter.com/X5hPyum0i4

— The Team 980 (@team980) February 18, 2026

Chaos? Harmony? Something in between? Kirk Cousins talks about the early days of the Redskins quarterback situation with RG3 and the Shanahans in 2012 with Kevin Sheehan pic.twitter.com/1Y0RL4UOEV

— The Team 980 (@team980) February 18, 2026

"He's a Hall of Famer if he stays healthy." Kirk Cousins talks about former Redskins teammate, tight end Jordan Reed, on The Kevin Sheehan Show. pic.twitter.com/87aPW3TRxO

— The Team 980 (@team980) February 18, 2026

"Instant explosive offense." Former Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins talks about playing with DeSean Jackson during his time in Washington on The Kevin Sheehan Show pic.twitter.com/SZR5dd0u6X

— The Team 980 (@team980) February 18, 2026

#Bears HC Ben Johnson has real influence in Chicago, and after a very successful year, he may want to reshape the roster even more in his image — which could put some veterans he inherited in limbo. pic.twitter.com/nMJMVCWEAW

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) February 19, 2026

I love that we collectively decided as a society that Alec Pierce is playing for all 32 teams next year, and for some reason it’s for only 15 million a year.

— Brett Kollmann (@BrettKollmann) February 19, 2026

Here are all the top regular-season teams with current version of DVOA, back to 2002. A surprising number of them dropped out of the top 10 the following season. https://t.co/r4N119WPAP pic.twitter.com/ZGiqy0iBMS

— Aaron Schatz (@ASchatzNFL) February 18, 2026

Consecutive losing seasons:

10 – NYJ
9
8 – ATL, CAR
7
6
5
4 – ARI, LV, TEN
3 – NYG
2 – CLE, DAL, IND, MIA, NO
1 – BAL, CIN, KC, TB, WAS
0 – SEA, NE, DEN, JAX, HOU, BUF, LAC, PIT, CHI, PHI, LAR, SF, GB, MIN, DET

— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) February 18, 2026

The 49ers will travel an NFL-record 38,000 round-trip miles during the 2026 season pic.twitter.com/qwRLh9UZeT

— Front Office Sports (@FOS) February 19, 2026

---

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/daily-slop/402008/daily-slop-19-feb-26-jayden-daniels-i-love-eagles-fans

 

[Washington Commanders]

Can Vincent Anthony, Jr. Give the Commanders’ Pass Rush a Boost?

DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA - AUGUST 30: Vincent Anthony Jr. #7 of the Duke Blue Devils reacts during the second half of the game against the Elon Phoenix at Wallace Wade Stadium on August 30, 2024 in Durham, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Vincent Anthony, Jr., DE
School: Duke | Conference: ACC
College Experience: Senior | Age: 21
Height / Weight: 6’5” / 246 lbs
Projected Draft Status: 5th Round
Player Comparison: Lorenzo Carter

College Statistics​

Tackles	Def Interceptions	Fumbles
Season	Team	Conf	Class	Pos	G	Solo	Ast	Comb	TFL	Sk	Int	Yds	IntTD	PD	FR	Yds	FRTD	FF	Awards
2022*	Duke	ACC	FR	DE	13	14	14	28	2.5	0.5	0	0	0	2	1	0	0	0
2023*	Duke	ACC	SO	DE	11	8	9	17	4.0	2.0	0	0	0	1	0	0	0	0
2024*	Duke	ACC	JR	DE	12	10	15	25	9.5	5.0	0	0	0	3	0	0	0	0
2025*	Duke	ACC	SR	DE	13	21	12	33	13.0	7.5	0	0	0	2	0	0	0	1
Career	49	53	50	103	29.0	15.0	0	0	0	8	1	0	0	1

Defense & Fumbles Table

Provided by CFB at Sports Reference: View Original Table
Generated 2/18/2026.

Player Overview​

Vincent Anthony, Jr. is Durham, North Carolina, through and through. The son of a standout player a North Carolina Central, Anthony, Jr. began playing football after he became too big to play basketball and soccer. Once in high school, Anthony, Jr. was a standout edge rusher, putting up 129 tackles and 19 sacks combined during his junior and senior seasons. This earned him a three-star prospect ranking with offers from Ole Miss, Georgia Tech, NC State, and Indiana. Anthony, Jr. wanted to show his community in Durham that it was possible to go to Duke, so he stayed closed to home and played for the Blue Devils.

Anthony, Jr. worked hard once he got on campus, impressing his coaches to the point where he could not be denied playing time. He started 12 of 13 games as a freshman with his play on the field earning him the team’s rookie of the year award. Off the field, he was an Academic All-ACC selection. Anthony Jr. would miss some time as a sophomore, but played in 11 games. As a junior, played in 12 games and received the team’s most improved player award. The last season of his career, Anthony, Jr. played his best football, and earned All-ACC honorable mention and Academic All-ACC, while helping the Blue Devils become ACC Champions.

Strengths​

• Long pass rusher with 34” arms
• Quick off the snap with speed to get around tackles
• Effectively uses ghost moves and euro steps to beat blockers
• Uses accurate, active hands to stay free of blockers
• Capable of bending around tackles and flattening to the quarterback
• Uses speed to shoot gaps in the run game and get TFLs
• High motor, often chasing plays from the backside

Weaknesses​

• Too few examples of him winning with power rushes
• Strength against the run can be inconsistent
• Hip tightness can make changing direction look labored
• Coverage ability may be limited to the flat

Let’s See His Work​

Duke ED Vincent Anthony Jr. gets held by OT Jude Bowry and still gets to the QB for the strip sack and recovery pic.twitter.com/tg2nydMSRi

— DMac Wake (@DMacWake316) January 31, 2026

Sources: The Commanders met with the following players at the Senior Bowl:

Max Llewellyn, DE/Edge, Iowa
LT Overton, DE/Edge, Alabama
Derrick Moore, DE/Edge, Michigan
Romello Height, DE/Edge, Texas Tech
Logan Fano, DE/Edge, Utah
TJ Parker, DE/Edge, Clemson
Gabe Jacas, DE/Edge,…

— The Podfather (@TheBurgundyZone) February 2, 2026

How He Fits on the Commanders​

The Commanders need help on the edge, but with new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones, there’s a question of what that player should look like. There is suspicion that given his background with Brian Flores in Minnesota, Washington may use a base 3-4 or more 3-4 looks. Mark Tyler explains in his latest article why the thinks the Commanders would need OLB help to run a 3-4 defense. Even if the Commanders play a 4-3 base defense with Dorance Armstrong and Javontae Jean-Baptiste, the team needs reinforcements in free agency and the draft to have an impactful position group.

Originally, I thought Vincent Anthony, Jr. might be a good fit as a 3-4 OLB. At a lighter weight on the edge, his quickness and speed are attributes that would benefit him in this role. However, the stiffness in his hips that makes changing directions difficult means he will likely struggle if he needs to drop into coverage. If that is the case, Anthony Jr. will probably be best in a 4-3 defense with wide alignments for their defensive ends. While that will allow him to make the most of his speed, he has to get stronger and use that strength in the run and pass game to be more than just a pass-rush specialist. If the Commanders get help off the edge in free agency and use their early draft picks on different positions, Vincent Anthony, Jr. is a Day 3 pick that could boost the pass rush and develop into a more well-rounded, 4-3 defensive end.

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/nfl-draft...hony-jr-give-the-commanders-pass-rush-a-boost

 

[Washington Commanders]

Daily Slop: 20 Feb 26 – Should the Commanders be targeting NY Giants TE Daniel Bellinger in free agency?

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - JANUARY 04: Daniel Bellinger #82 of the New York Giants reacts after scoring a second quarter touchdown against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium on January 04, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Ishika Samant/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Commanders links​

Articles​

Commanders Roundtable

So, why is Marshon Lattimore still on the roster?​

As with most things in the NFL, things are complicated. For one, Lattimore ended the season on injured reserve and is currently rehabbing that ACL. Under the NFL’s collective bargaining agreement (CBA), releasing a player who is physically unable to perform can trigger “Injury Protection Benefits.” The team may be waiting on final medical evaluations before making a move to ensure they are in good standing with the league and the NFLPA, making sure they truly get that $18.5M in cap space back with zero dead money.

Furthermore, Lattimore was recently arrested in Lakewood, Ohio, on January 7, 2026. The charges included a felony for improper handling of a firearm in a motor vehicle and a misdemeanor for carrying a concealed weapon. Typically, NFL teams stay in “purgatory” and gather information before making a cut, especially with felony charges involved. Lattimore had a hearing on February 6th, and the team may be waiting on the League Office to determine if any suspensions are coming down the pike before officially severing ties.

Finally, releasing Lattimore today would immediately relinquish any remaining trade leverage. While it is highly unlikely a suitor would absorb an $18.5 million contract for an aging corner coming off an ACL tear, there is zero advantage to cutting him before the clock runs out. The real “trigger date” is March 15th, the day he is scheduled to get a $2M roster bonus. Washington will almost certainly want to avoid that, so I’d expect Lattimore to be released right before then.

---

A to Z Sports

3 underrated EDGE options with younger upside for Commanders to target during 2026 NFL free agency period​

Malcolm Koonce, Las Vegas Raiders

Malcolm Koonce is a very underrated pass rusher in the league at just 27 years old. He suffered a torn ACL in 2024, but signed a one-year deal to return to the Raiders to prove himself once again. Koonce bounced back and collected five sacks, 35 pressures, and a forced fumble. He’s ready for a bigger role as well and looks to be 100% healthy.

He had eight sacks and 52 pressures in 2023 before his ACL injury, and getting that kind of production again would be a massive win. Koonce is smaller at 6-2 and 250 pounds, but he stops the run at a high level like the bigger defenders. He’s projected to get a three-year, $30 million contract in free agency, which is a great deal for both sides.

Malcolm Koonce sees the chip coming, turns upfield and uses bull rush to go through Campbell for strip sack. #RaiderNation pic.twitter.com/n6Oo5jPImJ

— Ryan Holmes (@Rholm22) September 8, 2025

The Commanders don’t have to risk throwing a bag at a player like Trey Hendrickson when they can sign one of these under-the-radar players this offseason. They found Dorance Armstrong as a rotational player in 2024, and now he’s a top pass rusher, so hopefully [a player on this list] could be the same.

---

Commanders Wire

Commanders should target underrated Broncos’ defender​

The top interior rusher on the market will be John Franklin-Myers of the Denver Broncos. Denver has the cap space to re-sign Franklin-Myers, but hasn’t reached a deal with him. He was a big part of the Broncos’ top-ranked defense in 2025, recording 25 tackles, including six for loss, 7.5 sacks and 15 quarterback hits. Franklin-Myers recorded at least seven sacks in each of the last two seasons.

Franklin-Myers is older than some other free-agent defenders, aside from Hendrickson. He’ll turn 30 in September. However, recent evidence proves he’s playing some of the best football of his eight-year NFL career. He’s also a success story.

His pressure numbers have improved over the past two seasons. He’s also experienced playing in the 3-4 and 4-3 defenses. Franklin-Myers has played defensive end and defensive tackle, so his versatility is an asset.

Another benefit for anyone who signs Franklin-Myers is that he is also stout against the run.

Spotrac projects Franklin-Myers to earn $7.9 million annually on his next deal. If he hits the open market, he’ll almost certainly earn more.

So, while the focus is on edge defenders, don’t look past Franklin-Myers. He should be high on Washington’s list.

---

Commanders.com

Daronte Jones: time at HBCUs helped build ‘foundation for who I am today’​

Jones, 47, finished up his college career as a defensive back with Morgan State. Almost a decade later, Jones returned to the DMV as Bowie State’s assistant head coach and defensive coordinator — positions he held for five seasons.

Jones knows that HBCUs don’t have the same “glitz and glamour” as many of the top programs in the country, but many of the lessons he learned at both Morgan State and Bowie State helped shape the coaching philosophies that he still relies upon.

“It’s the foundation of who I am today,” Jones said during his Feb. 10 introductory press conference.

Just Blog Baby

Von Miller quickly shot down the idea of joining the Raiders in free agency​

“For one, I’m still a taken man. I’m still in a relationship with the Washington Commanders. For two, if I’m going to go to the AFC West, it’s got to be the Denver Broncos,” Miller said. “Like what? Me playing the Denver Broncos twice a year? I don’t think it’s nothing that I can do to really take away from my legacy that I’ve already done with the Denver Broncos, but that: Going to the Raiders… That’s really the only thing that could make the Denver Broncos fanbase, Broncos Country, not love me no more.”

---

Podcasts & videos​

Command Center Awards Special! NEW Coordinator Reactions & BIG time Playmakers! | Commanders | NFL​

---

NFC East links​

Bleeding Green Nation

Lane Johnson is officially playing for the Eagles in 2026​

The Eagles’ legendary right tackle will NOT be retiring

The Philadelphia Eagles’ two-time Super Bowl champion right tackle told the Inquirer’s Jeff McLane that he’s officially returning for his 14th NFL season in 2026.

There was previously speculation that Johnson, who turns 36 in May, might call it a career after finishing the 2025 season injured. Jeff Stoutland’s exit didn’t seem to work in favor of Johnson returning.

But former Eagles running back LeSean McCoy recently claimed that Johnson told him he’s not retiring. NFL insider Adam Schefter also said he expected Johnson to be back.

Not to mention that Johnson would’ve left a lot of money on the table by walking away this offseason.

The Eagles are very happy to have their All-Pro right tackle in place for next season.

---

Landon Dickerson reportedly plans to play in 2026​

More good news for the Philadelphia Eagles following Lane Johnson’s decision to return for the 2026 season: it sounds like Landon Dickerson will also be playing in 2026.

the Inquirer’s Jeff McLane included this in his report about Johnson’s decision to not retire (bold emphasis mine):

Dickerson expressed some doubt about his future immediately after the 49ers defeat. He has yet to publicly address his plans, but there have been concerns inside the Eagles organization about the 27-year old’s health.

Recent indications are that Dickerson will return for his sixth season. The Eagles will likely have a clearer understanding of his plans ahead of next week’s NFL combine, when Sirianni and general manager Howie Roseman are expected to be available to reporters in Indianapolis.

There was previously concern that the 27-year-old Dickerson could decide to retire after playing through multiple injuries in 2025. He certainly didn’t sound very optimistic about his future outlook while speaking at locker room clean out day following the Eagles’ playoff loss to the San Francisco 49ers:

E.J. Smith of PHLY Sports reported that when asked if he’ll make a full recovery, Dickerson said, “If I had that answer, I’d feel a lot better.”

It remains to be seen just how effective Dickerson will be next season … and if he can stay healthy.

---

Blogging the Boys

10 players snubbed by the scouting combine that could interest the Cowboys​

Edge Mikail Kamara, Indiana

Although Kamara was a 15-game starter and a national champion in 2025 with the Hoosiers, he saw his production dip this past season. In 2023-2024, the former James Madison standout had several campaigns of production, accumulating 17.5 sacks.

LB Jaden Dugger, Louisiana-Lafayette

At 6’4”, 240 pounds with nearly 35” arms and a wingspan of 84”, Dugger definitely looks the part of an NFL LB. In a deep LB draft class he’s flying a little under the radar, but he could be a late round steal for. He has the skill set/talent to contribute in the NFL.

LB Shad Banks, UTSA

Banks is a versatile and explosive athlete who probably would’ve lit up the combine had he been invited. The 6’1”, 230-pound LB is a fluid mover playing with range and burst in both running and passing game. He’s what teams look for in a modern-day LB.

S Cole Wisniewski, Texas Tech

Wisniewski was a physical tone setter on the back end of the Red Raiders’ defense. He tallied a total of 78 tackles, six passes defensed, two forced fumbles, and one sack in 2025.

---

Big Blue View

NY Giants free agency 2026: Daniel Bellinger could find opportunity elsewhere​

Tight end has seemed undervalued by New York in recent seasons

With NFL free agency looming, Bellinger now has an opportunity to find out if someone else will show him more appreciation than the Giants.

Bellinger said at the end of the season that GM Joe Schoen had told him he was “part of the solution, not part of the problem” for the Giants.

Bellinger, though, also said that a bigger role elsewhere had appeal.

“Everybody wants to be number one in their position to succeed as much as they can,” Bellinger said. “And, of course, that’s what I want.

“But like I said, like my main goal in football from Little League to now and furthermore is just help a team win. If that is a tight end one role, that’s what I want.You know what I mean? But if I can help a team in a tight end two role or in special teams, whatever it takes to help a team win, I think is my biggest goal, because that’s what I want to walk away from the game and say, OK, I helped the team win games.”

Bellinger’s future with the Giants is no longer solely up to Schoen. New head coach John Harbaugh seems to be wielding final authority over most things these days, and which of their own free agents they prioritize keeping will likely be his call.

I think someone is going to get a useful player at a bargain price, and that the Giants will end up wishing they had valued Bellinger’s reliability rather than Johnson’s flash.

---

NFL league links​

Articles​

Front Office Sports

Bears $5B Stadium Plan Ramps Up As Indiana Pushes Ahead​

For nearly three years, the Bears have been unable to close a stadium deal in Illinois, creating an opening that Indiana is now taking advantage of

Indiana Gov. Mike Braun said Thursday that the state has “established a broad framework for negotiating a final deal” with the Bears, the most overt statement to date about its intent to complete an agreement for a domed facility for the team.

Next up is a vote on an Indiana state senate bill that would provide significant public funding for a new stadium in Hammond, Ind. The team would contribute $2 billion, while the public sector would cover the rest of what could be a $5 billion project. That public contribution would be generated from bonding against a series of local taxes—similar to the structure used to finance Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.

A full state legislative vote on the bill is anticipated in the coming days after it unanimously cleared a state House ways and means committee Thursday. A new amendment hones in on the Hammond location as the preferred site after others in nearby Gary were previously considered. The site almost directly abuts the state line between Indiana and Illinois.

As the Indiana situation has intensified, some Illinois leaders have shown a new willingness to work out a deal with the Bears. That pivot, however, could prove to be too little, too late. A state legislative committee canceled a scheduled Thursday hearing about legislation that would allow the Bears, or other large developers, to negotiate payments with local taxing authorities—a critical step toward getting an Illinois stadium deal done.

“Illinois was ready to move this bill forward,” said a spokesperson for Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker. “After a productive three-hour meeting yesterday, Bears leaders requested the [committee] pause the hearing to make further tweaks to the bill. This morning, we were surprised to see a statement lauding Indiana and ignoring Illinois.”

We all know why the Bears are pitting states against each other …

That said, I just out of curiosity mapped it, and Wolf Lake is 19 miles from Chicago. Arlington Heights is 25 miles away. I guess the difference would be the Indiana site is farther for most Bears fans? https://t.co/ufO0tFgSml

— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) February 19, 2026

---

Discussion topics​

Pro Football Talk

Florida Senate passes “Teddy Bridgewater Act” for high-school coaches​

Buccaneers quarterback Teddy Bridgewater saw his career as a high-school coach in Miami end after other coaches complained that he was spending his own money to help his players.

An effort is now underway to allow high-school coaches in Florida to do that.

Via Andy Villamarzo of Rivals.com, the Florida Senate has passed a “Teddy Bridgewater Act” that would allow coaches to use up to $15,000 of their own money to support student-athletes with food, transportation, and recovery services.

The bill still must pass the Florida House of Representatives and be signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis.

If it becomes law, the Teddy Bridgewater Act potentially opens Pandora’s box. How will anyone accurately track expenditures? And what’s to stop the coach from becoming the conduit for boosters to funnel more than $15,000 to players?

---

aBit o’Twitter​

Ready to compete pic.twitter.com/amI10gEPWX

— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) February 19, 2026

I broke down a few running backs that the Washington Commanders could pursue in free agency: https://t.co/9tGHRIjr1d pic.twitter.com/RFxT1KvZ8j

— Mark Bullock (@MarkBullockNFL) February 20, 2026

Washington Commanders prediction:

The Commanders will sign Mike Evans in free agency.

Despite interest from the Bills, Washington can commit more with breathing room under the salary cap. The push to get Jayden Daniels to a Super Bowl before his rookie contract tolls is real,… https://t.co/dhVA76ozy9

— COMMANDERS FOOTBALL (@HogsHaven) February 20, 2026

Top RB prospect Jeremiyah Love on the coolest person he saw at Radio Row

“I’ve seen Jayden Daniels. Great quarterback, he won the Heisman …”

(:@ESPNNFL, h/t:@Reez_Delaghetto) pic.twitter.com/1YiIyoHsEw

— brandon (@JayDanielsMVP) February 19, 2026

Mitch Tischler thinks Javon Kinlaw will play a big role in Daronte Jones' scheme next season for the Commanders pic.twitter.com/TBQT1MxXdk

— The Team 980 (@team980) February 19, 2026

Here's the full intvw w Jayden Daniels where he's explicitly asked about Eagles fans. That answer didn't come out of nowhere, he got asked about Philly fans. People get mad over anything https://t.co/sPT60gr1pm

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) February 19, 2026

TE Isaiah Likely to the Washington Commanders?

"I just wanna be able to blossom. I feel like the last couple years I've had a great vet in Mark Andrews. He's taught me everything to be a star-caliber tight end to the point where it's like now, I feel like I just wanna be on a… pic.twitter.com/sIOca1khkr

— COMMANDERS FOOTBALL (@HogsHaven) February 20, 2026

"David Bailey without question will be an advanced pass rusher the minute he begins his NFL career. For Arvell Reese, it may take some time."

—@FieldYates weighs in on why Bailey could get the edge over Reese for the Jets second overall pick. pic.twitter.com/roNQM89B2p

— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) February 19, 2026

Guard (LG & RG) Pressure Rate (%):

1. #Bears LG J. Thuney (2.19%)
2. #Panthers D. Lewis (2.20%)
3. #Colts Q. Nelson (2.35%)
4. Full list below…

2025 Regular Season pic.twitter.com/DQYCytrGF9

— Daniel Rotman (@daniel_rotman15) February 19, 2026

Several teams have unlocked their split-safety coverage by playing their safeties closer to the line of scrimmage.

Each of the six teams with the shallowest average safety depth in 2025 were among the top eight in Cover 4 usage, the NFL's most popular split-safety concept. pic.twitter.com/64KbTpy9l5

— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) February 19, 2026

Not Kliff Kingsbury https://t.co/xOqPxebWiM

— COMMANDERS FOOTBALL (@HogsHaven) February 20, 2026

a closer look at the remnants of RFK before it's built back up again pic.twitter.com/L3sWcEdrZa

— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) February 19, 2026

ALYSA. LIU.

Nothing else needs to be said pic.twitter.com/CcCSw9RDW6

— ESPN (@espn) February 19, 2026

O SAY CAN YOU SEE pic.twitter.com/W2FJYwjjAX

— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) February 19, 2026

---

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/daily-slo...-ny-giants-te-daniel-bellinger-in-free-agency