RSS Commanders Team Notes

[Washington Commanders]

Washington Commanders Free Agency: Andrew Wylie re-signs for two years

Sep 29, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Washington Commanders guard Andrew Wylie (71) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Washington Commanders have signed another pending free agent before the new league year starts next month. Andrew Wylie is a versatile, veteran offensive lineman, and he’s coming back on a two-year, $7.5 million deal that could go up to $10.5 million with incentives.

Wylie has been with Washington since 2023, and has played several positions on the offensive line. Last season he replaced Nick Allegretti at right guard in Week 3. He has also been the team’s starting right tackle. Wylie reworked his contract to stay with the team last year, and is now back on a new deal.

The Commanders have worked to remake their offensive line after drafting Jayden Daniels with the No. 2 overall pick in 2024. They are likely to extend left tackle Laremy Tunsil’s deal, but could be losing Chris Paul in free agency. Paul only became a starter this season when he replaced Brandon Coleman at left guard.

Source: The #Commanders and RT Andrew Wylie have agreed to a 2-year, $7.5M contract with upside to $10.5M, keeping him off the FA market.

Wylie has started 34 games in 3 seasons with Washington and wanted to stay with the organization. A win-win deal for both sides. pic.twitter.com/Jm01yudOYH

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) February 23, 2026

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/washingto...ee-agency-andrew-wylie-re-signs-for-two-years

 

[Washington Commanders]

Adam Peters Speaks at the NFL Scouting Combine

Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters spoke to reporters at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis today. This is the first time he’s spoken to the media since right after the season ended. The Commanders replaced two coordinators since then, promoting assistant QB coach to OC, and hiring Daronte Jones from the Vikings as the new DC.

Peters was asked a wide range of questions about the team, the new coaching staff, free agency, and of course this year’s draft. Signing Laremy Tunsil remains a priority, saying he doesn’t want it to drag on like the Terry McLaurin deal last year. Protecting Jayden Daniels is obviously a top priority, and the Commanders have been rebuilding the offensive line over the last two years.

Peters said the team isn’t negotiating a new deal with Daron Payne, and there have been reports about the team keeping for him, despite his high cap hit this season. Peters said they wouldn’t discuss a new deal with him until after the season.

Marshon Lattimore is another player that capologists are checking off the list for added cap space after his release. Lattimore’s ACL tear could lead to an injury settlement, but John Keim added that the decision isn’t about a settlement.

Brandon Aiyuk? Peters loves the person, but can’t talk to the player while he’s under contract with another team.

LIVE: GM Adam Peters speaks to the media at the 2026 NFL Combinehttps://t.co/wH1GgZ14BM

— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) February 24, 2026

Replacing Tim Gribble:​

Peters won’t replace Gribble until after the draft. Could be internal candidate

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) February 24, 2026

Top Ten pick:​

AP jokes he hopes this top 10 pick goes as well as the last one (Jayden)

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) February 24, 2026

Marshon Lattimore:​

Adam Peters: We haven’t made a final decision on Marshon Lattimore, “there’s a lot of things that go into that”

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) February 24, 2026

No decision yet on CB Marshon Lattimore per Adam Peters. My understanding is that this is not about an injury settlement. “We’ll still have a few more conversations but until then he’s still on our team,” Peters said.

— John Keim (@john_keim) February 24, 2026

Brandon Aiyuk:​

Adam Peters talks Brandon Aiyuk – everybody on earth deserves a 2nd chance pic.twitter.com/pHf7EL7r7v

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) February 24, 2026

Adam Peters says he can’t comment on Brandon Aiyuk as he’s under contract w SF but he believes in second chances. “I love Brandon the person but can’t comment on the player.”

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) February 24, 2026

New deal for Laremy Tunsil:​

AP says a deal with Tunsil remains a top
priority but he doesn’t want to put a deadline on it. the new league year isn’t an imperative but “we don’t want it to drag on”

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) February 24, 2026

Adam Peters said they’ve had good talks with Laremy Tunsil and his representatives about an extension. No deadline but they feel good about the direction.

— John Keim (@john_keim) February 24, 2026

Zach Ertz:​

Adam Peters says they will keep the door open with Zach Ertz but hard to know the future there. AP says he likes the young tight ends on the roster too

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) February 24, 2026

Adam Peters said they'll "keep the door open for sure" with Zach Ertz (torn ACL in December). "It's hard to quantify how good he is…" Peters said. "We've had a lot of talks with him and his agent …seeing how he progresses with his injury. But you can't count on anything."

— John Keim (@john_keim) February 24, 2026

No replacement for Brian Johnson:​

Adam Peters said they’ll “absorb” Brian Johnson’s role as pass game coordinator.

— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) February 24, 2026

Daron Payne:​

Peters said he doesn't expect to discuss an extension with DT Daron Payne this offseason. He's under contract with the #Commanders through 2026.

— Tashan Reed (@tashanreed) February 24, 2026

AP says they’re really excited for Daron Payne in the new defense but no contract talks expected until after the year. Tunsil only active negotiations

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) February 24, 2026

New senior director of player health and performance:​

Peters said the #Commanders will hire a new senior director of player health and performance. Tim McGrath previously held that role but parted ways with the team this offseason.

— Tashan Reed (@tashanreed) February 24, 2026

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/pressers/...he-nfl-scouting-combine-washington-commanders

 

[Washington Commanders]

Dan Quinn Speaks at the NFL Scouting Combine

Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters spoke to reporters at the NFL Scouting Combine earlier today, and now it’s head coach Dan Quinn’s turn at the podium.

LIVE: HC Dan Quinn speaks to the media at the 2026 NFL Combine https://t.co/kQ7weozSjR

— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) February 24, 2026

Finalizing the new coaching staff:​

Dan Quinn says staff changes are difficult but the organization is excited about where things are headed. Says coaching staff still not quite finalized but should be within a few days pic.twitter.com/298IhDuQz3

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) February 24, 2026

Dan Quinn addressing the media at the combine. Said the team is close to finalizing the coaching staff and believes they are a couple days away from that

— Zach Selby (@ZachSelbyWC) February 24, 2026

NIL money in college:​

Interesting question from @ByMikeJones about if NIL has impacted scouting – Dan Quinn says the biggest difference is that guys have changed the excitement about that first NFL paycheck. Says it helps somewhat that more often guys have played in different systems

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) February 24, 2026

Chris Paul:​

Quinn said he is “super proud of Chris Paul.” Credits him for developing while working alongside Tunsil. Really liked how he developed as a pass protector

— Zach Selby (@ZachSelbyWC) February 24, 2026

Ben Sinnott/Zach Ertz:​

Dan Quinn says Ben Sinnott and Zach Ertz are very different players and that maybe Sinnott will be able to show more in the new offense pic.twitter.com/0tYtjVGJM2

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) February 24, 2026

Daron Payne:​

Quinn thinks the versatility that comes with Daronte Jones’ system will benefit Daron Payne

— Zach Selby (@ZachSelbyWC) February 24, 2026

In his presser just now, Dan Quinn talked about Payne being able to play 3-4 end and NT – “He’s big enough to be a 3-4 end… He’s got the strength that can play inside at NT and quickness to move”

They won’t say it, but sounds like 3-4 front is coming

— Mark Bullock (@MarkBullockNFL) February 24, 2026

Bobby Wagner:​

Dan Quinn on Bobby Wagner: We love Wagz…We will see what happens over next few weeks pic.twitter.com/Z8SG5yH58w

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) February 24, 2026

Dan Quinn on if LB Bobby Wagner has communicated his plans for 2026: "We haven't gotten into the specifics of what's ahead and where we're at yet. That'll be in the days [ahead]."

— John Keim (@john_keim) February 24, 2026

Priorities in free agency:​

Quinn said the priorities in FA are adding "length and speed, for sure." Said on defense that can either be a pass rusher or coverage. key: "Affect the QB." On offense, focus is on adding explosive plays — stemming from PA and the pass game.

— John Keim (@john_keim) February 24, 2026

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/pressers/402859/dan-quinn-speaks-at-the-nfl-scouting-combine

 

[Washington Commanders]

The Cold, Hard Truth – The 3-4 Defense Could be Making a Comeback

A few weeks ago, I wrote this article saying how I believe Washington has the personnel to fit better into a base 4-3 rather than a 3-4. Yesterday both Adam Peters and Dan Quinn spoke at the NFL Scouting Combine, and although neither would come out and say that new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones would be implementing his version of the 3-4, Quinn did talk about the versatility of veteran defensive tackle Daron Payne, mentioning him being able to play both as a 3-4 defensive end and a nose tackle.

In his presser just now, Dan Quinn talked about Payne being able to play 3-4 end and NT – “He’s big enough to be a 3-4 end… He’s got the strength that can play inside at NT and quickness to move”

They won’t say it, but sounds like 3-4 front is coming

— Mark Bullock (@MarkBullockNFL) February 24, 2026

This raised a lot of eyebrows within Washington Twitter, where folks have guessed for weeks what new scheme Jones would bring to D.C. Did Dan Quinn just let the cat out of the bag?

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If Jones is adamant about implementing a 3-4 defense, or at least principles of a base 3-4, a lot will need to change to make that happen. First, let’s take a look at each defensive scheme in some more detail.

4-3 Base:​

This front uses the more traditional 3-technique defensive tackles, and the “hand-in-the-dirt, edge-setting” defensive ends. First, let’s take a look at the defensive tackles needed to run this defensive effectively.

The 3-technique defensive tackle is usually lined up over the offensive guard or shaded to the inside or outside eye. Sometimes (in certain packages) they can be asked to be a two-gapper, and kick into the A gap to a 1-technique. What sets these players apart from a 3-4 defensive tackle, is that they are asked to penetrate the line of scrimmage, opposed to occupying blockers. In a traditional 3-4 base, the defensive tackles have gap responsibility, meaning they are usually asked to plug a gap, while occupying more than one blocker. The 4-3 defensive tackle is usually a quicker, more agile playmaker, who has the ability to beat a one-on-one block, and make plays in the opposition’s backfield.

The defensive end is the most important linemen in a 4-3 defense. These players are usually 6’ 3” or taller, and weigh between 260-275 pounds. Two decades ago, the defensive ends in an odd-front were bigger, run-stuffing humans, who looked like defensive tackles, but played with the agility and quickness of a linebacker. Reggie White and Howie Long were two defensive ends that fit this description. Over the last 10-15 years, the position has changed quite a bit. Today’s defensive ends in a 4-3 base have to be multi-dimensional athletes, who are strong enough to set the edge against the run, but are also agile enough to use their quickness, body lean, and flexion to beat offensive tackles on their way to the quarterback.

The 4-3 base defense uses three linebackers. The middle linebacker is referred to as the MIKE. He is the player normally tasked with making the defensive calls and gets the defensive linemen and other linebackers in the right position. This player is often referred to as the quarterback of the defense. He must be multi-dimensional, as he is often asked to take on centers, guards and H-backs at the point of attack but also must be able to drop back into high-hole coverage, cover a back out of the backfield, or even spy a quarterback. The weak side linebacker is called the WILL. This is usually the team’s most athletic linebacker who excels in coverage. The WILL is asked to be versatile as well, as they are often used in a variety of blitz packages, but could also be responsible for leverage coverage on slot receivers, and hook-curl/flat coverage in zone defenses. The strong side linebacker is called the SAM. He may be a good pass rusher but also needs to be able to come up and set the edge on stretch or tosses, or when there is a defensive line stunt where the defensive end is asked to pinch or slant inside. The SAM is also asked to jam, and cover in-line tight ends in passing situations. SAMs are usually the linebacker subbed out in nickel.

• Pros: Tough defensive to run against if defensive ends are playing their role correctly. Linebackers are huge in their responsibility against heavy passing teams. Allows a more evenly distributed zone defense with each linebacker having a defined area. Defensive ends don’t have to read and react as much. Defensive linemen are able to pin their ears back and just play football.

• Cons: Not as easy to disguise fronts and blitz packages. Takes the element of “confusion” away from some defensive coordinators. Relies heavily on defensive tackles ability to generate pressure on quarterbacks (if you don’t have good 3-techniques, this defense can become a liability).

3-4 Base:​

This defensive front uses three defensive tackles, and four linebackers (two inside and two outside). The role of the players changes drastically compared to the 4-3.

The nose tackle is an important part of any 3-4 defense. This player is normally a “space-eater”, who plays over the nose of the center, or shaded to either A-gap (although many teams are now going for a quicker, lighter more agile gap-penetrator). The nose tackle is asked to absorb double teams from the center and play-side guard, and like the defensive tackles, he often goes unnoticed, as his job is to free up the inside linebackers to make plays in the run game.

The 3-4 defensive end is a much different position than the 4-3 defensive end. These players are usually larger, slower space-eaters, who again, are asked to absorb more blockers than to create havoc in opposing backfields. The main difference between a 3-4 defensive end and a 4-3 defensive end is that the defender does not have contain responsibilities. All three of the defensive linemen in a 3-4 are usually tasked with gap responsibilities. They are asked to occupy an area on the line of scrimmage and control that area with their size and strength, often absorbing multiple blockers. This allows the middle linebackers more freedom to play sideline to sideline.

The outside linebackers in a 3-4 are more like defensive ends in a 4-3. They are the players who set the edge against the run and also rush the passer. Unlike their counterparts, the 3-4 outside linebackers are required to play in space, as they must have the ability to match-up against tight ends, and drop into flat or seam coverage when asked. These players are often labeled as “tweeners” and have become more prevalent in the college game due to the popularity of the spread offense. The 3-4 outside linebacker is usually lighter and more agile than the 4-3 defensive end but also needs to have the strength to anchor the play side against the run. These guys were usually the pass-rushing linebackers or under-sized defensive ends in college.

Finally the two inside linebackers in a 3-4 are the field generals. They are very similar to the WILL and MIKE in a 4-3, and are very instrumental in both stopping the run, and setting up in high and low-hole zone coverage against the pass. They are sometimes called the MIKE and JACK if they are viewed as more interchangeable pieces.

• Pros: The 3-4 allows more versatile blitz packages and exotic defensive fronts designed to confuse offenses. If the proper personnel is in place, it can be a tough defensive to run inside against. This defense can generate a lot of quarterback sacks and hurries from the outside linebacker position.

• Cons: Outside zone, stretch and tosses can exploit this defense if the outside linebackers are not disciplined. Teams who run a zone blocking scheme are often successful running the ball against 3-4 teams, as there are often cutback lanes along the line. Linebackers are more susceptible to play-action passes. Tight ends can exploit weaknesses in coverages. Outside linebackers NEED to be able to drop into coverage, or the offense can easily find mismatches in the passing game. It is very hard to find players who excel at both rushing the passer and playing coverage.

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Currently, Washington lacks a true nose tackle, a true 3-4 defensive end, two outside linebackers and a MIKE linebacker. On top of that, there are also players who really don’t fit well into what a 3-4 typically asks players to do.

• Jer’Zhan Newton – much better suited as a one-gapping defensive linemen who can play over a guard.
• Dorance Armstrong – not a player you want playing in space and having to cover.
• Javontae Jean-Baptiste – too stiff to effectively play in space and cover.
• Frankie Luvu – too slow to be a true 3-4 off-the-ball linebacker, and not big or strong enough to play as a 3-4 outside linebacker. Lacks good pass-rushing skills.

To get this defense ready to switch to a base 3-4 defense, Adam Peters will need to take advantage of both free agency and the draft to fill the many holes that exist.

3-4 defense free agent wish list:​

• Benito Jones (29) MIA – 3-4 NT
• Neville Gallimore (29) IND – 3-4 NT
• Naquan Jones (28) HOU – 3-4 NT
• John Franklin-Myers (30) DEN – 3-4 DE
• Logan Hall (26) TB – 3-4 DE
• Da’Shawn Hand (30)LAC – 3-4 DE
• Bradley Chubb (30) MIA – 3-4 OLB
• Malcolm Koonce (28) LV – 3-4 OLB
• K’Lavon Chaisson (26) NE – 3-4 OLB
• Arnold Ebiketie (27) ATL – 3-4 OLB
• Azeez Ojulari (26) PHI – 3-4 OLB

NFL draft prospects at pick 7:​

• David Bailey EDGE 6’3” 250
• Arvell Reese EDGE 6’3” 245
• Sonny Styles LB 6’3” 242

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/washingto...th-the-3-4-defense-could-be-making-a-comeback

 

[Washington Commanders]

Daily Slop: 25 Feb 26 – Commanders heading to London in 2026 to play at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

Officially official, the @Jaguars and @Commanders are coming to London! pic.twitter.com/56M7VqMD3K

— NFL UK & Ireland (@NFLUKIRE) February 25, 2026

Commanders links​

Articles​

ESPN

Jaguars, Commanders host teams for NFL’s 3 London games​

The Jacksonville Jaguars and Washington Commanders will be the host teams for the NFL’s three London games in 2026, the league announced Wednesday morning.

The Jaguars, who have played in London annually every year since 2013 except for 2020, will play two home games in London for the first time. They will play one at Wembley Stadium and another at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The Commanders will play their home game at Tottenham.

Opponents and dates will be announced later, though the Jaguars are expected to play back-to-back weeks in October.

The NFL announced on Tuesday that Detroit would play a home game at FC Bayern Munich Stadium in Germany. Games also will be played in Madrid, Paris (New Orleans Saints), Mexico City (San Francisco 49ers), Rio de Janeiro (Dallas Cowboys), and Melbourne (Los Angeles Rams vs. San Francisco 49ers).

pic.twitter.com/9y1LA5MdDX

— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) February 25, 2026

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The Athletic (paywall)

Commanders will return to London in 2026 for first time in a decade​

“The NFL has obviously demonstrated that there is a market for this,” Commanders president Mark Clouse said shortly after the team’s return from Madrid last year. “… So, I see it both as a great fan opportunity, but I also see it as a really good business opportunity for the franchise as well.”

“It’s the ambition we have to be a global sport,” commissioner Roger Goodell said in San Jose during the week of Super Bowl LX. “But it’s also the demand we’re having. We’re hearing from cities that want to host these games and really want to get more American football.”

Last season, six of the NFL’s seven international games aired on NFL Network and drew an average of 6.2 million viewers, up 32 percent from the network’s international slate in 2024.

Incredibly this will be new Commanders DC Daronte Jones' 4th game in 5 years at Tottenham, and his 3rd in a row.

Daronte also traveled to Wembley in 2016 with the Dolphins and 2017 with the Bengals

He'll look to stay undefeated at Tottenham #RaiseHail https://t.co/0ep3Y2APOv

— Resh (@reshmanuel) February 25, 2026

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From Commmanders.com:​

As the Official Hospitality Provider of the NFL and Proud Partner of the Washington Commanders, On Location has launched its Priority Access deposit program for the NFL London Game at Tottenham Stadium. On Location’s ticket and travel packages can include premium seating and fan parties, roundtrip airfare, deluxe hotels, guided tours, and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities that will create lasting memories. Visit OnLocationExp.com/CommandersLondon to place a fully refundable, time-stamped Priority Access deposit which assures first choice of tickets and bespoke experiences.

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Heavy.com

Crazy speculation or insightful theory?​

In 2 previous games in the NFL International Series, they’re 0-1-1 with a 16-13 overtime loss to the Miami Dolphins in 2025 and a 227-27 overtime tie with the Cincinnati Bengals at London’s Wembley Stadium in 2016.

Could Commanders be in London for 2 Weeks?

There’s actually a chance the Commanders have an extended stay in London if the NFL scheduling gurus use some common sense.

The Commanders are at London as a home team. Also, the Jags are at London back to back as a home team.

Commanders play at Jacksonville this season.

Commanders in London back to back weeks? pic.twitter.com/4mi66vw3yZ

— Chris Williams (@slimceeVA) February 25, 2026

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The Athletic (paywall)

Commanders GM ‘as motivated as ever’ to get deal done with Laremy Tunsil​

“I don’t want to put a timeline on it, but it is really important for us,” Peters said of his intent to reach an agreement with Tunsil. “We’ve been having talks. We’ve been having good, productive talks with Laremy and his team, and we’re as motivated as ever to get that done. … Obviously, I don’t think any side wants to drag it on, but I don’t think the league year is anything that’s going to be a deadline of sorts.”

Tunsil has one year remaining on his contract, which includes a $16.95 million base salary and an approximate $24.9 million cap charge.

Although Tunsil didn’t receive Pro Bowl or All-Pro recognition, he had one of his best seasons in 2025, allowing a team-low 3.3 percent pressure rate. He gave up only 15 total pressures and two sacks, according to Pro Football Focus. He was also instrumental in helping the Commanders’ young offensive linemen develop.

Tunsil worked extensively with then-rookie tackle Josh Conerly Jr. throughout the season. He also invited Conerly and guard/tackle Brandon Coleman to Auburn to work with him and his personal coach, Dominic Studzinski, in the 2025 offseason.

“The talks have been positive,” Peters said of the team’s discussions with Tunsil. “I have a ton of respect for Laremy, and not just the player, who is outstanding, but the person and the way he’s approached everything since we acquired him — as a player, as a leader, taking the other guys under his wing and just being a great overall locker room guy and addition to the building. He treats everyone with respect on staff. He’s been everything we asked for, and we’ve had good talks.”

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Riggo’s Rag

8 high-impact free agents Commanders could rip away from NFC East rivals​

Commanders could sign Cordale Flott

Washington needs more in its cornerback room. Trey Amos and Mike Sainristil will have roles to play in 2026. Nothing else is guaranteed, and four-time Pro Bowl corner Marshon Lattimore looks like a prime salary-cap cut candidate in the very near future.

New defensive coordinator Daronte Jones needs dependable players in coverage to allow his front seven to wreak havoc within what’s expected to be an aggressive scheme. Cordale Flott needs some work against the run, but at 24, he’s more than capable of making the desired improvements.

Flott’s ability to mirror receivers and lock people down took significant strides forward last season. The former LSU standout gave up just 52.2 percent of his targets and a 73.3 passer rating when targeted in 2025. The turnover numbers are low, but his rising influence could make this a risk worth taking as the Commanders look to fill a clear hole on their defensive depth chart.

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Commanders.com

5 takeaways from Dan Quinn’s combine press conference​

1. Daron Payne could benefit from being in Daronte Jones’ defense.

Payne had a solid season in 2025 but didn’t stand out as much on the stat sheet with 46 tackles and three sacks, but that could change once he gets acclimated to Jones’ system. The scheme highlights versatility and a willingness to use multiple fronts, which Quinn thinks could be a perfect match for Payne’s skill set.

“I think the versatility will help,” Quinn said. “What’s so much fun about coaching Daron is that he’s big enough to be a 3-4 end. He’s got the strength to play inside at nose tackle and quickness to move.”

The hope is that Payne can get closer to the numbers he put up in the final year of his previous contract, when he tied a franchise record for a defensive tackle with 11.5 sacks. Jones has a background in several systems, but many of them have emphasized moving players around the line of scrimmage to put them in the best position to make plays.

If Jones can figure out how to use Payne’s versatility, it could make the Commanders’ defensive front even more potent. Payne has already shown an ability to affect quarterbacks; on top of his three sacks, he also tied a career-high with five pass breakups.

5 takeaways from Adam Peters’ combine press conference​

1. No pressure to add a tight end.

The Commanders are in an interesting position with their tight ends. Zach Ertz has been one of their best players over the last two seasons, but the veteran is still recovering from his knee injury and likely won’t be ready for most of the 2026 season.

The Commanders aren’t going to turn down good players, but Peters likes what he has in the position as it is currently constructed. John Bates has continued to cement himself as one of the league’s top blocking tight ends, and Peters believes Ben Sinnott will have room to make plays in Blough’s system. He even mentioned how excited the team is for Lawrence Cager and how he can help in the passing game.

“We’ll look to kind of fill his [Ertz’s] role with a combination of those guys,” Peters said.

With that said, the Commanders are at least open to the possibility of adding another pass-catcher to the position. It would certainly help replace Ertz, who had 504 yards and four touchdowns last season. There are several players who could help with that as well, from the likes of Kyle Pitts and Isaiah Likely to lesser-known products like Chigoziem Okonkwo and others.

The Commanders’ offense was at its best in 2024 when it had a reliable tight end. The Commanders want to “leave the door open” for Ertz, but they are aware of their situation and want to do whatever necessary to give Jayden Daniels more weapons.

Ready to go

5 takeaway from Adam Peters' combine press conference

— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) February 24, 2026

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Bullock’s Film Room (this article is available to read in full for free)

Takeaways from Commanders combine press conferences​

Adam Peters and Dan Quinn both spoke to the media at the combine, here’s my main takeaways from those press conferences

[W]hile Quinn was quick to praise Paul for his performances and his work ethic, he stopped short of committing to trying to bring Paul back. When asked about how much of a priority it was, Quinn sidestepped the question.

“We’re going through the whole process, everybody counts in that, you know, not the same, but everybody’s part of it. But yeah, definitely somebody that, like, obviously we’re keeping close tabs on as Adam and his team are going through that.”

That’s a far cry from last year when Quinn and Peters both spoke about how they wanted guys like Zach Ertz and Bobby Wagner back. Neither were shy about saying that then. So for Quinn to be so non-committal is of note to me. “Keeping close tabs on” is very different to “We want him back”. Don’t get me wrong, I think the team would have Paul back at the right price, but I’m not sure that they have the same value for him that other teams might have.

Offensive lineman get paid a premium in free agency. Just last year, the Packers paid guard Aaron Banks nearly $20 million per year on average despite him being widely considered a bust in San Francisco. I’m not saying Paul will get that type of deal, but he could get a significant contract. The Commanders already have a lot invested in the offensive line. Tunsil is in line for a new deal, Sam Cosmi is already on a big contract. Tyler Biadasz got a decent free agent contract and Josh Conerly was a first round pick. There’s only so much you can invest in an individual unit.

Besides that, the Commanders have a player ready to step in for Paul in Brandon Coleman. He struggled at left guard last year but he had a very unsettled offseason where he switched positions multiple times and battled with some injuries that never really let him get set. He’s also a much more athletic lineman than Paul, which would mean if the Commanders are to try and use more of the zone blocking scheme. Coleman would be a better schematic fit than Paul.

I’m perhaps reading too much into that comment from Quinn, but I did feel it was notable that he didn’t really give a firm response to say they wanted Paul back. Quinn also stopped short of saying the team wants Bobby Wagner back. There were also reports on Tuesday that Wagner intends to play in 2026, just like Ertz. When asked about Wagner, Quinn was more enthusiastic than he was with Paul, but also didn’t commit to anything.

”We love Wagz. One of my favorite ones this year was just getting to visit with him after him winning the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. So proud. We haven’t got into the specifics of what’s ahead and where we’re at with that yet, so that will be in the days and weeks ahead”.

Do you want him to sound panicked? It’s Feb 24th. They can’t do much yet.

I thought AP sounded like he typically does, calm and finding ways to not really answer many questions https://t.co/iH8GS4rP0P

— Mark Bullock (@MarkBullockNFL) February 24, 2026

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Commanders Roundtable

Commanders GM Adam Peters updates status of several key players​

No decision on Marshon Lattimore

The Commanders enter the offseason with several question marks on both sides of the ball, but one of the more obvious moves for the front office is the decision to move on from cornerback Marshon Lattimore, which has yet to materialize after months of speculation.

Lattimore, who was acquired via trade midway through the 2024 season, has struggled in his season plus in Washington before suffering a season-ending injury that raised questions whether he played his last snap for the organization. Washington enters the offseason with a chance to move on from his contract with no added dead money and $18.5 million in extra cap space, but over one month after the 2025 regular season ended, his status remains unresolved.

Peters noted that the team has not made a “final decision” on his status for 2026.

“There’s a lot of things that go into that and we’ll still have a few more conversations, but until then, he’s still on our team.”

No decision yet on CB Marshon Lattimore per Adam Peters. My understanding is that this is not about an injury settlement. “We’ll still have a few more conversations but until then he’s still on our team,” Peters said.

— John Keim (@john_keim) February 24, 2026

I asked Adam Peters about the expectation of releasing CB Marshon Lattimore.

He said no decision has been made.

I would be stunned if the ultimate decision is anything but Lattimore's release.

— Ben Standig (@BenStandig) February 24, 2026

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Podcasts & videos​

Stories from the NFL Combine + Make or Break Prospects | Podcast | Washington Commanders | NFL​

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NFC East links​

Philly Voice

Howie Roseman sounds like a general manager who is prepared to get raided in free agency​

For the second consecutive offseason, the Philadelphia Eagles will almost certainly lose a few starters via free agency, and they [don’t have the cap space required] to spend big money on free agents from other teams.

Howie Roseman sounds like a general manager who is prepared to get raided.

“I think from a big picture perspective, we want to build a team that every year has a chance to compete for championships, that drafts really well and signs their own players and just sporadically goes into free agency,” Roseman said. “That’s what we’re trying to do.

“And sometimes as much as you want to add from outside and you want to change it up, you got to make a decision to keep the players you know have played well and are part of your culture. Can we keep all our guys considering we have, for example, a lot of key defensive starters coming off rookie deals in next few years? No, we are going to have to make choices. For us to sign them, that’s gonna limit some flexibility with outside players. So, then you combine that with the fact that teams, because there’s more cap room, because the cap has gone up, teams have done a great job of signing their own players.

“And so, you can, you know, just shuffle deck chairs, right, and just say, ‘Hey I’m gonna trade out this guy because he’s not ours,’ and maybe it’s a better PR move that, ‘Hey, we’re active.’ Look we signed this guy, but that means we’re gonna have to get rid of one of our own guys, you know, and so everything we do at this point is a trade-off. If we do this, we’re gonna have to get rid of that. But I think that… that’s the right way really to build teams here to draft, develop, and re-sign.

“And I know that’s not flashy. That doesn’t mean that we can’t do splashy things, but from a broad perspective, if we can keep our players, if we can keep a lot of these young, really good players that we know that we live with, so we know who they are as people, and then it’s like a cake, it’s like a layer cake. Then you build on top of it with more good draft picks and more good young players, and then the cycle starts again. That’s ideally how we’d like to do that. So, that’s my little macro vision of how this works and how this should work.

“And I think last year, I said to you guys, over a two-year period, it’s going to be hard for us, unless we make major moves to subtract, to really make some sort of splash move that costs money because we like the players we have drafted and want them as a big part of our next few years as well.”

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ESPN

Brandon Aubrey seeking larger deal from Cowboys, sources say​

The Dallas Cowboys and the agent for Pro Bowler Brandon Aubrey are in agreement that he should be the highest-paid kicker in the NFL. The disagreement is by how much.

The Cowboys have offered a deal for Aubrey that is more than the league-high $6.4 million average per season for Kansas City’s Harrison Butker, sources told ESPN. However, Aubrey’s agent, Todd France, has asked for a deal closer to $10 million per season, according to sources.

The negotiations started last season but have not progressed.

Aubrey is set to become a restricted free agent. The Cowboys are likely to place the second-round tender on Aubrey at a cost of close to $5.8 million. He entered the league as an undrafted free agent, so if the Cowboys put the right-of-first-refusal tender on Aubrey, they would not receive any compensation in return if they did not match an offer made by another team.

The only restricted free agent to leave a team for a second-round pick was Wes Welker, who was ultimately traded to the New England Patriots from the Miami Dolphins for second- and seventh-round picks in 2007.

While using the restricted free agent tender would have Aubrey under contract only for 2026, the Cowboys could use the franchise tag on him in 2027 to effectively keep him out of free agency.

Aubrey, who turns 31 next month, has been named to the Pro Bowl in each of his first three seasons. He has made six field goals from 60 yards or longer, the most in NFL history. Last season, he connected on 11-of-17 field goal attempts from 50 yards or more.

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Bleeding Green Nation

Eagles Film Review: Reed Blankenship is one of the trickier free agent decisions​

Blankenship is a player whose value is fundamentally tied to scheme fit and communication, and that’s not a backhanded compliment. It’s an accurate description of what Fangio’s defense actually needs. Not every safety has to be a coverage eraser or a run-stuffing force. Some have to be the ones who hold the structure together, keep everyone aligned, and make the right play in the right direction so that the defense can operate as designed. Blankenship does that.

The right outcome here is a mid-tier deal that reflects his actual role in the system. I would be fine with the quoted $10m per year average I have seen predicted online. Paying him like a top safety would be a clear overpay for what he brings athletically. But letting him walk to chase a more athletic profile introduces real risk, both in the coverage busts that come from a new safety still learning the system’s rules, and in the development of Mukuba alongside a safety partner who doesn’t know them yet.

At the correct number, he should be retained. He fits the scheme. He supports the structure. He reduces the frequency of coverage errors caused by confusion rather than by individual athleticism. And in a Fangio defense, that specific kind of reliability is worth more than most people’s metrics will tell them.

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Big Blue View

NY Giants free agency 2026: Defensive linemen who could be upgrades​

John Franklin-Myers, Broncos

The 29-year-old stands at 6-foot-4, 288 pounds, and figures to be more of a pass-rushing defensive lineman, who is a competent enough run defender. He had 43 pressures and 7.5 sacks in Vance Joseph’s system in 2025 and 53 pressures and seven sacks in the year prior with Denver and Joseph. He was also a dominant defensive line asset with the New York Jets from 2020 to 2023, where he had over 50 pressures in each season.

Franklin-Myers figures to be an ideal 4i-shade in BASE that can kick inside in even fronts to a three-technique position. Franklin-Myers is a versatile player with pass-rushing upside and a constant motor, who is consistent against the run.

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NFL league links​

Tweets​

Sean Payton on giving up play calling to Davis Webb pic.twitter.com/5kAs4XefCU

— Chris Tomasson (@christomasson) February 24, 2026

Dave Canales turns over play calling duty to Brad Idzik. https://t.co/7U8EZuk0LT

— Two Growls One Roar (@2growls1roar) February 25, 2026

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Combine / NFL Draft​

Pro Football Talk

Arvell Reese plans to do edge rusher and linebacker drills at Combine​

Reese saw time as both an off-ball linebacker and an edge rusher while with the Buckeyes and his potential in both spots boosted his prospect status heading into the draft process. Reese plans to continue giving teams a chance to see him in both roles at the Scouting Combine this week.

During a press conference on Wednesday morning, Reese told reporters that he plans to do drills at both linebacker and edge rusher this week. He also plans to run the 40-yard dash during his time in Indianapolis.

“You should almost deploy him the way Micah Parsons is…”

“I've been doing this a long time, and you know me well enough to know I rarely say “WOW” a guy just looks special… Well, Reese looks like that GUY.”@GregCosell LOVES Ohio State LB Arvell Reese: pic.twitter.com/7rvnuKAeuA

— Ross Tucker Podcast (@RossTuckerPod) February 25, 2026

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LB Sonny Styles met with the Washington Commanders. Asked by @john_keim.

More here: pic.twitter.com/l6tpGNv80l

— CWallSports (@cwallse) February 25, 2026

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Mel Kiper mocked LB Sonny Styles to the Commanders… My reaction on video:https://t.co/e4JK2UMUZN

— John Keim (@john_keim) February 24, 2026

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aBit o’Twitter​

The Commanders’ head of health and performance Tim McGrath decided to go back to Australia so they’re looking for a replacement.

— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) February 24, 2026

Dan Campbell says the Lions wanted David Blough and it was smart of Dan Quinn to move fast and make him offensive coordinator pic.twitter.com/9Ou1qTqSXy

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) February 24, 2026

Bears coach Ben Johnson on Commanders OC David Blough pic.twitter.com/c3VWFSk2V0

— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) February 24, 2026

Three-time Pro Bowl TE Zach Ertz plans to play a 14th NFL season and is expected to be cleared right around Week 1, per sources.

Ertz is 2 months into rehab from a torn ACL. He ranks 5th in catches and 8th in yards among TE in NFL history, including 50-504-4 in 13 games in 2025. pic.twitter.com/yhxB326HfB

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) February 24, 2026

Sources: #Commanders 11-time All-Pro LB Bobby Wagner, the Walter Payton Man of the Year award winner, fully intends to continue playing for a 15th NFL season in 2026.

The future Hall of Famer started all 17 games again this past season, recording 162 tackles, 2 INTs and 4.5… pic.twitter.com/2tga7j2li8

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) February 24, 2026

Dan Quinn on Bobby Wagner: We love Wagz…We will see what happens over next few weeks pic.twitter.com/Z8SG5yH58w

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) February 24, 2026

@BenjaminSolak

Who's going to jump out when the edge rushers and defensive tackles take the field at the #NFLCombine in Indy this week?#NFL #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/plUb96t18d

— Rich Eisen Show (@RichEisenShow) February 24, 2026

From The Insiders on @NFLNetwork at the Combine: The Maxx Crosby situation got a little clearer today. But only a little. pic.twitter.com/F3R2yXSgkK

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 24, 2026

John Lynch says nothing will happen with Brandon Aiyuk until the new league year pic.twitter.com/mAl8fYsoU0

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) February 24, 2026

Just in: The #49ers and 12x Pro Bowl OT Trent Williams have had contract negotiations but have struggled to bridge the gap, which could result in San Francisco releasing him, per @AdamSchefter. pic.twitter.com/XMCAAZpRyj

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) February 24, 2026

The decision date for the 49ers on trade vs cut of Trent Williams would be the 10th day of the league year which is when a bonus is due.

If they were to cut my guess is it would be a post June cut. He would count for $15.8M dead in 2026 and $20.8M dead in 2027 plus a $2.5M cap…

— Jason_OTC (@Jason_OTC) February 24, 2026

The #Falcons’ restructured contract with Kirk Cousins forced a decision by Friday, March 13, which is the third day of the league year. New Atlanta GM Ian Cunningham says Cousins won’t have to wait that long and will be free March 11. https://t.co/7WODlH5iY0

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) February 24, 2026

“I think anytime there’s a quarterback in play, you have a chance.”

Dolphins GM Jon-Eric Sullivan joined The Insiders to discuss the chances of trading Tua Tagovailoa, plus Malik Willis, why he plans to keep Jaylen Waddle or Devon Achane and more. @nflnetwork pic.twitter.com/5cctMJvXKy

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) February 25, 2026

Yeah Breece Hall is gonna be a Jet in 2026 whether it’s on the tag or an extension but it’s quite clear with Mougeys presser they will have Hall back

— Will Parkinson (@Willpa11) February 24, 2026

The UFL is adapting a fun rule. Teams can't punt on the plus side of the field.

When you cross the 50 yard-line and get into plus territory, punts are off the table. There's no laying up for field position with a bloop punt. Cross the 50? Go on 4th down or kick a FG. I love it. pic.twitter.com/xdMbvW9D0p

— Grant Paulsen (@granthpaulsen) February 24, 2026

The UFL has announced new rules for its upcoming spring season:

• Tush Push is banned
• 60+ yard FGs worth 4 points
• No punting from inside opposing territory pic.twitter.com/SGfy35rAPh

— Front Office Sports (@FOS) February 24, 2026

This brings up a lot of issues, if it’s 4th and 8 and the +49 do you intentionally take a delay so you can punt? Will that even be allowed? Does the other team decline the penalty?

— Scott Turner (@ScottTurner) February 24, 2026

Congrats to whomever devised this drill. What a great way to teach patience, staying square and sorting through chaos. And, it allows for plenty of reps in a short period of time. One of the most under-rated aspects of a drills is its efficiency. This one aces that element. https://t.co/X53csrRqam

— Kevin Smith (@KTSmithFFSN) February 23, 2026

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Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/daily-slo...-in-2026-to-play-at-tottenham-hotspur-stadium

 

[Washington Commanders]

2026 NFL Scouting Combine Workouts: DL, LBs and Kickers

Defensive linemen, linebackers and kickers will be doing drills at the NFL Scouting Combine today. The Washington Commanders will be very interested in today’s workouts.

Thursday, February 26th: Defensive Linemen, Linebackers and Kickers do on-field workouts — Defensive backs and tight ends meet with the media.

Time, TV, and streaming info​

• Date: February 26th-March 1st
• Time: 2/26-27 3 pm; 2/28-3/1 1 pm
• Location: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, Ind.
• TV: NFL Network
• Streaming: FuboTV, NFL.com

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OFFICIAL INVITE LIST​

Defensive Linemen​

• Vincent Anthony Jr., Duke
• David Bailey, Texas Tech
• Rueben Bain Jr., Miami
• Cameron Ball, Arkansas
• Caleb Banks, Florida
• Jaishawn Barham, Michigan
• Nick Barrett, South Carolina
• Rayshaun Benny, Michigan
• DeMonte Capehart, Clemson
• Brandon Cleveland, N.C. State
• Dontay Corleone, Cincinnati
• Keyron Crawford, Auburn
• Caden Curry, Ohio State
• Dani Dennis-Sutton, Penn State
• Zane Durant, Penn State
• Bryson Eason, Tennessee
• Deven Eastern, Minnesota
• Logan Fano, Utah
• Keldric Faulk, Auburn
• Skyler Gill-Howard, Texas Tech
• George Gumbs Jr., Florida
• David Gusta, Kentucky
• Gracen Halton, Oklahoma
• Zxavian Harris, Mississippi
• Romello Height, Texas Tech
• Cashius Howell, Texas A&M
• Aidan Hubbard, Northwestern
• Lee Hunter, Texas Tech
• Quintayvious Hutchins, Boston College
• Gabe Jacas, Illinois
• Darrell Jackson Jr., Florida State
• Bobby Jamison-Travis, Auburn
• Marvin Jones Jr., Oklahoma
• Joshua Josephs, Tennessee
• Tim Keenan III, Alabama
• Nyjalik Kelly, UCF
• Malachi Lawrence, UCF
• Max Llewellyn, Iowa
• Anthony Lucas, USC
• Jackie Marshall, Baylor
• Chris McClellan, Missouri
• Kayden McDonald, Ohio State
• Akheem Mesidor, Miami
• Christen Miller, Georgia
• Derrick Moore, Michigan
• Trey Moore, Texas
• Tyler Onyedim, Texas A&M
• Domonique Orange, Iowa State
• LT Overton, Alabama
• T.J. Parker, Clemson
• Patrick Payton, LSU
• Kaleb Proctor, Southeastern Louisiana
• Jack Pyburn, LSU
• Albert Regis, Texas A&M
• Mason Reiger, Wisconsin
• Tyreak Sapp, Florida
• Gary Smith III, UCLA
• R Mason Thomas, Oklahoma
• Nadame Tucker, Western Michigan
• Damonic Williams, Oklahoma
• Wesley Williams, Duke
• Peter Woods, Clemson
• Zion Young, Missouri

Linebackers​

• CJ Allen, Georgia
• Lander Barton, Utah
• Wesley Bissainthe, Miami
• Bryce Boettcher, Oregon
• Kendal Daniels, Oklahoma
• Kaleb Elarms-Orr, TCU
• Keyshaun Elliott, Arizona State
• Aiden Fisher, Indiana
• Eric Gentry, USC
• Jake Golday, Cincinnati
• Owen Heinecke, Oklahoma
• Anthony Hill Jr., Texas
• Justin Jefferson, Alabama
• Jack Kelly, BYU
• Deontae Lawson, Alabama
• Kyle Louis, Pittsburgh
• Red Murdock, Buffalo
• Namdi Obiazor, TCU
• Harold Perkins Jr., LSU
• Arvell Reese, Ohio State
• Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech
• Jimmy Rolder, Michigan
• Karson Sharar, Iowa
• Xavian Sorey Jr., Arkansas
• Sonny Styles, Ohio State
• Josiah Trotter, Missouri
• Scooby Williams, Texas A&M
• Wade Woodaz, Clemson
• Taurean York, Texas A&M

Specialists​

• Tommy Doman Jr., P, Florida
• Ryan Eckley, P, Michigan State
• Trey Smack, K, Florida
• Drew Stevens, K, Iowa
• Jack Stonehouse, P, Syracuse
• Brett Thorson, P, Georgia
• Dominic Zvada, K, Michigan

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Hogs Haven Media Information​

Podcasts: Apple Podcasts | Pandora | Spotify | Podbean | iHeartRadio

Facebook Page: Click here to like our page

Twitter: Follow @HogsHaven

Instagram: Follow @Hogs_Haven

Threads: Follow @hogs_haven

Blue Sky: Follow Hogs Haven

Manager: Scott Jennings: Follow @ScottJenningsHH

Buy Washington gear at the Hogs Haven Fanshop

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NFL News twitter feed

Washington Commanders twitter feed

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Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/college-p...-scouting-combine-workouts-dl-lbs-and-kickers

 

[Washington Commanders]

The Washington Commanders are releasing starting center Tyler Biadasz

LANDOVER, MARYLAND - OCTOBER 20: Tyler Biadasz #63 of the Washington Commanders blocks against the Carolina Panthers at Northwest Stadium on October 20, 2024 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Washington Commanders are reportedly releasing starting center Tyler Biadasz. He has been the starting center since Dan Quinn brought him over from the Dallas Cowboys. Biadasz was entering the third, and final year of the contract he signed in 2024. The team will save $2.8 million by releasing him, but they could designate him as a post-June 1st cut to save $8.2 million this season.

Biadasz was placed on injured reserve on New Year’s Eve last year after getting his leg rolled up against the Cowboys. He was replaced by Nick Allegretti who had lost his starting left guard job to Chris Paul earlier in the season. Washington will need more offensive line depth after the Biadasz cut. They have free agency next month, and the draft in April to add to the roster.

The #Commanders are releasing starting center Tyler Biadasz, source said. Another center available in free agency. The 28-year-old has started 31 games over two seasons. pic.twitter.com/Khc07CCkhA

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 26, 2026

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/nfl-free-...s-are-releasing-starting-center-tyler-biadasz

 

[Washington Commanders]

Commanders Trade Bait – Players Who Could be Moved This Offseason

LANDOVER, MARYLAND - NOVEMBER 30: Terry McLaurin #17 of the Washington Commanders celebrates a rreception against the Denver Broncos during the second quarter at Northwest Stadium on November 30, 2025 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Washington is a team without many impact players, and one who is switching both its offensive and defensive schemes this year. The need to get younger and better is evident, but the plan of how to accomplish those goals is not.

Many suspect that Washington will be major players in free agency, but Adam Peters’ past has shown that a more conservative approach may be in the cards.

With limited top 100 draft picks, the chances of finding multiple young impact players diminishes significantly.

If only there was a way for Washington to generate more draft compensation in 2026…

Maybe, just maybe, Adam Peters has a few tricks up his sleeve when it comes to some veteran players currently on this team.

I’m talking trades!

The list of players below are some I feel would garner the most interest if they were made available.

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Terry McLaurin​

Although this might not be a popular take among the fanbase, McLaurin could be a great veteran presence for a team looking for that final piece to get them over the hump. The Bills, Patriots and Ravens come to mind.

Why he could be a trade candidate: The Commanders need to get younger, and Terry, who will turn 31 years old in September, may not be a part of their future plans. The deal he signed last year was essentially a two-year commitment, however if another team is willing to part with a top 64 draft pick for his services, he could be a commitment for another franchise.

• Potential trade compensation: second or high third-round pick.

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Daron Payne​

Payne, a 2018 first round draft pick who will turn 29 in May, is in the final year of a four-year, $90 million contract that carries a $27.5 million dollar cap hit this season. Payne offers scheme versatility as he can play all the inside techniques in any defensive front.

Why he could be a trade candidate: Payne is currently set to play out the final year of his second contract in Washington. Although scheme fit in a 3-4 shouldn’t be a concern, Adam Peters may want to see if he can get some compensation for the veteran while he’s still in his prime. Despite struggles all over the defense last season, Payne was still effective, finishing inside the top five among all defensive tackles in run-stop win-rate.

• Potential trade compensation: third-round pick

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Brandon Coleman​

Coleman was drafted as an offensive tackle in the third round of the 2024 NFL draft and went on to start 12 games at left tackle. Although he struggled a bit, the upside was evident. After trading for Laremy Tunsil, the assumption was Coleman would kick over to right tackle – that is until Adam Peters selected Josh Conerly at pick 29 in the 2025 NFL Draft. Coleman was moved to left guard where he lost the starting battle to veteran Chris Paul. He ended up being the team’s swing tackle for the 2025 season. The 25-year-old would have some serious suitors for lineman-needy teams if he were to be made available.

Why he could be a trade candidate: Washington currently has their two bookend tackles and right guard set. There is a possibility that Quinn and Peters will push to re-sign Chris Paul, who did a really nice job at left guard in 2025. The team also just re-signed Andrew Wylie who can play both tackle and guard. This could leave Coleman as a reserve yet again in 2026.

• Potential trade compensation: third-round pick

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Dorance Armstrong​

Armstrong is in the final year of a three-year deal he signed with the team as a free agent in 2024. The 29-year-old carries a cap hit of $12 million for the 2026 season, and although he is coming off injury, he was on pace for his best season as a pro in 2025, collecting 24 total tackles, seven for a loss, and five-and-a-half sacks in just seven games before being placed in injured reserve.

Why he could be a trade candidate: Armstrong is best suited as a defensive end in a 4-3 where he can play with his hand in the dirt. He doesn’t have the athleticism required to play in space as a 3-4 outside linebacker. If the move to a 3-4 is eminent, Armstrong may not be the best guy to have on the edge.

• Potential trade compensation: mid-round pick

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Frankie Luvu​

Luvu had a career year in 2024 (his first season with the Commanders) collecting 99 total tackles, 12 for a loss, eight sacks, one forced fumble and an interception on his way to being named as a second team All-Pro. He came back down to earth in 2025, where he split time between EDGE and off-the-ball linebacker. He is in the final year of a three-year deal he signed in 2024 and carries an $11 million dollar cap hit.

Why he could be a trade candidate: Although he’s been mentioned by Daronte Jones as a chess piece that can be moved around the defense, he’s also a guy who could be stuck without a true position. He lacks the speed and coverage skills necessary to be an effective off-the-ball linebacker in a base 3-4, and he’s not an outside linebcker who can consistently line up on the outside and rush the passer and set the edge.

• Potential trade compensation: mid-round pick

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With the exception of Brandon Coleman, who is still playing out his rookie contract, the others on this list are very unlikely to be here past 2026. Peters could potentially play the compensation pick game with guys like Payne, Luvu and Armstrong hoping to get back some draft picks when they hit free agency, but no one knows how things will shape up after the 2026 season.

This draft is pretty deep as some positions of need for Washington, and more picks could help with the rebuild. EDGE, linebacker, wide receiver and corner, all positions that Washington could use an infusion of talent and youth, offers some intriguing prospects well after day one.

Now, I do not expect a mass trade exodus this offseason, but I do think this topic is worth some discussion around the players I have listed. Would it shock me if we saw one of these players moved before April’s draft – absolutely not.

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/washingto...ait-players-who-could-be-moved-this-offseason

 

[Washington Commanders]

Update: NFL salary cap set at $301.2 million in 2026; Washington Commanders currently have 5th-most cap space

LANDOVER, MD - SEPTEMBER 21: Laremy Tunsil #78 of the Washington Commanders takes the field before kickoff against the Las Vegas Raiders during an NFL football game at Northwest Stadium on September 21, 2025 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Update: The NFL officially set the 2026-27 salary cap at $301.2 million, up $22 million from last season. Over the Cap currently projects Commanders available cap at $71.284m, the 5th-most in the NFL.​

NFL clubs were informed today that the salary cap for the ’26 season will jump $22 million per club to $301.2 million. Add in another $77.6m in benefits & that’s $378.8m per club in player spending. Tremendous growth pic.twitter.com/cQ5Zf3aGVW

— Brian McCarthy (@NFLprguy) February 27, 2026

ORIGINAL ARTICLE:​

The NFL sets their salary cap every year after the season and before the new league year. From 2012 to 2020, it rose by about $10-12 million per year after a new CBA was signed in 2012 following a lockout, and TV deals pumped a ton of money into the league’s coffers, growing the pot of money for owners and players.

That changed five years ago as the NFL looked to spread out some of the losses of revenue caused by the effects of COVID. The cap dropped $15.7 million from 2020 to 2021.

But it bounced back four years ago, and has been growing bigger every year since.

The NFL sent a memo to teams at the end of January saying the salary cap will fall in the range of $301.2-305.7 million for the 2026 season.

NFL salary cap projected at $301.2 million to $305.7 million per team for 2026 season, per @TomPelissero https://t.co/RZoqM2JETv pic.twitter.com/XesEpTvlLM

— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) January 30, 2026

The Washington Commanders currently have $71,414,851 available according to Over the Cap, but that is based on their $303.5 million cap projection. Washington currently has the sixth-most cap space in the NFL, based on current numbers.

Washington is coming off a very, bad season that started with high expectations, and ended with two coordinators being replaced. The Commanders were 12-5 and played in the NFC Championship Game in the first year of the Adam Peters/Dan Quinn/Jayden Daniels era. That led to high hopes for year two, but injuries and other factors led to a 5-12 finish, and a top 10 pick in this year’s draft.

Free agency officially starts on March 11, with the legal tempering window opening two days before that. Washington has over 30 free agents and a goal to get younger after having the oldest roster in the NFL last season. Free agency will play a part in that, and they also have decisions to make on several of their own pending free agents. There is also LT Laremy Tunsil who is in line for an extension, and Daron Payne who has a very big cap hit in the final year of his contract.

The Commanders have the No. 7 overall pick in this year’s draft, and six picks total after several trades last season. Washington will look to free agency, and possibly more trades, to fill their old and new needs after an extremely disappointing season. Adam Peters and crew will then look at the draft to restock the roster with more young, cheap talent.

Salary Cap by year:​

2026: $301.2 million

2025: $279.2 million

2024: $255.4 million

2023: $224.8 million

2022: $208.2 million

2021: $182.5 million

2020: $198.2 million

2019: $188.2 million

2018: $177.2 million

2017: $167 million

2016: $155.27 million

2015: $143.28 million

2014: $133 million

2013: $123 million

2012: $120.6 million

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/washingto...-commanders-currently-have-5th-most-cap-space

 

[Washington Commanders]

2026 NFL Draft Profile: Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love

SOUTH BEND, IN - NOVEMBER 22: Jeremiyah Love #4 of the University of Notre Dame runs with the ball during a game between Syracuse University and University of Notre Dame at Notre Dame Stadium on November 22, 2025 in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Miller/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images) | ISI Photos via Getty Images

Jeremiyah Love, RB

School: Notre Dame | Conference: Independent

College Experience: Junior | Age: 20.7 (DOB: 05/31/2005

Height / Weight: 6’0” / 212 lbs

Projected Draft Status: 1st Round (Top 15)

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College Statistics​

Rushing	Receiving	Scrimmage
Season	Team	Conf	Class	Pos	G	Att	Yds	Y/A	TD	Y/G	Rec	Yds	Y/R	TD	Y/G	Plays	Yds	Avg	TD	Awards
2023*	Notre Dame	Ind	FR	RB	13	71	385	5.4	1	29.6	8	77	9.6	1	5.9	79	462	5.8	2
2024*	Notre Dame	Ind	SO	RB	16	163	1125	6.9	17	70.3	28	237	8.5	2	14.8	191	1362	7.1	19
2025	Notre Dame	Ind	JR	RB	12	199	1372	6.9	18	114.3	27	280	10.4	3	23.3	226	1652	7.3	21	H-3,AA
Career	41	433	2882	6.7	36	70.3	63	594	9.4	6	14.5	496	3476	7.0	42

Rushing & Receiving Table

Provided by CFB at Sports Reference: View Original Table
Generated 2/23/2026.

Player Overview​

Jeremiyah Love entered Notre Dame as a high-pedigree four-star recruit and a state-champion two-sport athlete (track) from St. Louis. After flashing elite speed as a rotational piece behind Audric Estimé in 2023, Love took over the backfield in South Bend, quickly becoming a national sensation. His 2024 season was highlighted by a school-record 13-game rushing touchdown streak and a legendary 98-yard TD run against Indiana in the College Football Playoff.

As a junior in 2025, Love ascended to the top of the college landscape. He swept the major awards at his position, winning the Doak Walker (Nation’s top RB) and was named a Heisman finalist and a Unanimous All-American. His combination of sprinter speed (10.54s 100m), vision, and elite contact balance has established him as the consensus RB1 for the 2026 NFL Draft.

Beyond the raw stats, Love’s impact within the Irish offense was transformative due to his ability to serve as a strategic chess piece for HC Marcus Freeman. Coaches have praised his high football IQ, noting that his transition from a track-focused athlete to a refined technical runner happened much faster than scouts anticipated. His presence in the backfield forced opposing defensive coordinators to choose between stacking the box to stop his explosive ability as a no nonsense North-South runner or playing nickel coverage to account for his prowess flexed out in space.

Even in high-pressure situations, such as late-game drives against ranked opponents (see USC, Miami, and Texas A&M tape), Love remained the focal point of the offense, showcasing a level of durability that silenced early-career critics. His leadership within the locker room and his composure during Notre Dame’s deepest postseason runs have solidified his reputation as a ‘culture-setter’, according to a source, making him a highly coveted prospect for NFL franchises looking for a potential franchise-altering addition at the RB spot.

Strengths​

• Home-Run Speed: Legitimate track speed that allows him to outrun DBs once he reaches the second level.
• Three-Down Versatility: Has flashed hands in space — can also line up in the slot and run wide-receiver quality routes; a mismatch against LBs.
• Elite Contact Balance: Frequently spins, hurdles, or bounces off tacklers while maintaining forward momentum. One of the few ball-carriers in recent years that can go through, around, and over defenders if need be.
• Vision & Patience: Displays advanced maturity in pressing the hole and allowing his blocks to develop before exploding through the alley.
• Ball Security: Incredible discipline with only one fumble across 433 career carries.

Weaknesses​

• Leaping Tendency: Has a habit of hurdling defenders unnecessarily, which puts him at risk of significant hits in the open field.
• Pass Pro: While physically capable of blocking, he can be inconsistent in identifying delayed blitzers or stunts. Trait that will improve as more reps are earned.
• Power Limitations: More of a finesse and speed runner than a pile-pusher; rarely wins through pure brute force in short-yardage situations.

Let’s See His Work​

How He Fits on the Commanders​

Love would arrive in Washington as a transformative weapon for new OC David Blough. Blough is expected to blend the systems of Ben Johnson and Kevin O’Connell — schemes that prioritize explosive versatility and spacing, and for Love, a dynamic threat with the ball in his hands, well, he fits the vision.

In Blough’s projected offense, Love would serve as Washington’s bonafide RB1 with Bill Croskey-Merritt as a secondary piece. Love’s background as a state champion sprinter allows him to erase pursuit angles on the outside zone runs that are staples of the O’Connell tree. Furthermore, Love’s receiving profile — highlighted by 27 catches this fall — and his ability to align in the slot, complements the Air Raid elements Blough retained from the previous staff. By pairing Love with Jayden Daniels, Washington’s backfield would be as dynamic as any in football, similar to the Ravens, using Love’s skillset inside-outside the tackles to relieve the pressure through the air, and unnecessary shots Daniels has taken in two seasons.

Key Tactical Advantages:​

• Dual-Threat: Love’s 6.9 yards per carry average and reliable hands provide the high-floor, high-ceiling reliability needed to stabilize a new-look offense.
• Scheme Independent: Love has proven efficient in both zone (8.1 YPC on outside zone) and gap schemes, allowing Blough to be collaborative and exotic with his play-calling.
• Pass Protection Readiness: It’s all about effort for RBs in pass pro, and Love has no issue sticking his face in the mud to keep his QB clean if he’s not working in space.

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/nfl-draft...-dame-rb-jeremiyah-love-washington-commanders

 

[Washington Commanders]

The Cold, Hard Truth – Adam Peters Miscalculated the Recalibration

General manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn both shared the same philosophy when they took over their respective roles with the Washington Commanders in 2024.

“It’s not a rebuild, it’s a recalibration and we are trying to win right now”.

Commanders GM Adam Peters

In fairness, no fan wants to hear that their team is entering a large rebuild. Every person tied to the organization wants to win and wants to do so NOW. However, in reality, a rebuild was exactly what the team was entering.

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Prior to Adam Peters’ arrival, Washington had not had a winning season since 2016 under then head coach Jay Gruden and pseudo general manager Bruce Allen. Ron Rivera did make one playoff appearance in the first season of his four-year tenure as head coach/general manager, but that 7-9 record was more on the weak NFC East than a good Washington Team.

Rivera would go on to have a 26-40-1 overall record in Washington, and his tenure will be remembered for his horrible draft choices that would ultimately end up leaving the cupboards bare for Peters and Quinn.

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When Peters was hired, he was tasked with finding a new head coach. He had two young risers on his radar – Mike Macdonald (Ravens defensive coordinator) and Ben Johnson (Lions offensive coordinator). Peters offered Macdonald the job, but he chose to take the head role in Seattle over coming down the beltway to D.C. Johnson flirted with the idea of becoming the team’s new head coach but ultimately decided on remaining with Detroit in his current role. I don’t know if either coach was ready to take on the “recalibration” that was in front of them.

Adam ultimately landed on former Falcons head coach and Cowboys defensive coordinator Dan Quinn. The hire did not move the needle for many Washington fans, but Peters was adamant that he had gotten “his guy”.

The “recalibration” was officially under way.

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Thanks to the 4-13 season than ended Ron Rivera’s time with the Commanders, Peters and Quinn held the second overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. It was the perfect time to hold this high pick, as Washington desperately needed a quarterback and face-of-the-franchise and the draft had four very good options in Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye and Bo Nix. After Caleb Williams was selected first overall by the Bears, Peters settled on the Heisman winning passer from LSU – Jayden Daniels.

Washington held two picks in round two but acquired another via a trade with the Eagles. Peters picks in that round included Jer’Zhan Newton, Mike Sainristil and Ben Sinnott. Adam walked away with nine total players from that 2024 draft, none more important than quarterback Jayden Daniels.

But it was not just the 2024 draft that caused excitement within the fanbase. Prior to the draft, the Commanders had a strategic free agency where they added some much-needed talent to their roster.

• Marcus Mariota
• Austin Ekeler
• Zach Ertz
• Nick Allegretti
• Tyler Biadasz
• Dorance Armstrong
• Dante Fowler
• Clelin Ferrell
• Bobby Wagner
• Frankie Luvu
• Anthony Pittman
• Michael Davis
• Noah Igbinoghene
• Jeremy Chinn

Although some of these players were older veterans, the idea was to build through the draft and have some of these more mature players mentor the younger ones.

Despite these new additions most national media had the Commanders finishing anywhere between 5-7 wins and picking high again in the 2025 draft. Much to the delight of the fanbase, Quinn and his new-look Commanders, led by their rookie phenom quarterback, shocked the league and finished the season 12-5 with a second-place finish in the NFC East. An unprecedented playoff run saw them fall just one game short of a Super Bowl appearance.

This is where miscalculations began…

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Everything bounced the Commanders way during that magical 2024 season, including staying relatively healthy, and a few prayers from up above. Daniels looked every bit the part of a future NFL MVP and Peters and Quinn felt it was time to go all-in on a Super Bowl run in 2025.

And who could blame them? In the NFL you need to strike while the iron is hot, and it was scorching to the touch.

What took place in the 2025 offseason could be labeled as malpractice by most.

Instead of focusing on adding young, ascending talent and continuing to approach this “recalibration” with cautious optimism, Peters took the aging veteran approach to a new level, and decided to run it back with many of the same players he signed the previous offseason.

Washington re-signed key veterans Marcus Mariota, Bobby Wagner, Zach Ertz and Noah Igbinoghene, all who played well the prior season. Instead of re-signing the young, productive Jeremy Chinn, Peters let him walk and inked Will Harris to a two-year deal. Washington chose not to look at younger edge rushers and instead brough in Deatrich Wise and Jacob Martin on one-year deals. Peters would later add the 36-year-old Von Miller to the team. Veteran corner Michael Davis was replaced by an even older Jonathan Jones. Eddie Goldman was added in an attempt to bolster the middle of the defensive line.

The only younger signing that was of any significance was Javon Kinlaw. That was considered the Commanders “splash” for the 2025 offseason.

Peters did make two nice acquisitions via trade, landing Laremy Tunsil from the Texans and Deebo Samuel from the 49ers. Tunsil did not come cheap, as very good offensive tackles rarely do, seeing Washington send 2025 third- and seventh-round picks, and 2026 second- and fourth-round picks in exchange for Tunsil and a 2025 fourth-rounder. Samuel came a bit cheaper, requiring just a 2025 fifth-round pick for the 29-year-old veteran. Just before the trade deadline in 2024, Adam also acquired veteran corner Marshon Lattimore and a 2025 fifth-round pick from the Saints in exchange for 2025 third-, fourth- and sixth-round picks.

In less than one year, Adam Peters traded away the following picks for three veteran players, just one of whom panned out:

• 2025 3rd
• 2025 3rd
• 2025 4th
• 2025 5th
• 2025 6th
• 2025 7th
• 2026 2nd
• 2026 4th

In the grand scheme of draft picks, first and second rounders are seen as immediate contributors. Third, fourth and fifth rounders are your developmental guys, while sixth and seventh rounders are bottom-of-the-roster/special teams contributors.

While Laremy Tunsil has certainly lived up to, and exceeded, expectations, Lattimore and Samuel are both likely on their way out of Washington. These last two were calculated risks taken by Peters that really didn’t work out; however, these are moves that are usually made when your roster is missing just a few pieces, not for a team under a “recalibration”.

As for the other 2025 free agents…

Deatrich Wise suffered a quad injury and was placed on season-ending IR after just two games. Will Harris broke a bone in his leg and missed eight games. Jonathan Jones missed five-and-a-half games with injury and was ineffective in the games he did play in. Bobby Wagner showed even more signs of aging and was picked on by opposing offensive coordinators in coverage and on outside runs. Zach Ertz showed he was not effective after the catch, before getting his season ended on a brutal hit to his knee. Eddie Goldman played in 13 games and recorded just 10 solo tackles and no sacks. Lattimore played poorly in nine games before tearing his ACL and missed the remainder of the season.

2024 free agent signing Austin Ekeler (30) tore his Achillies two games into the season, and fellow 2024 free agent and second team All-Pro Frankie Luvu took a MASSIVE step backwards in 2025. Finally, after a torrid start to the season, Dorance Armstrong missed the team’s final 10 games of the year with a knee injury suffered against his former team.

Three free agent acquisitions who did well in 2025 were defensive lineman Javon Kinlaw (career best 43 total tackles with five for a loss), Von Miller who led the team with nine sacks and Jacob Martin, who appeared in all 17 games notching five-and-a-half sacks.

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Adam Peters severely miscalculated the “recalibration”. Instead of spending the money to add young, ascending free agents coming off their rookie deals, he chose cheap, one-year aging veteran contracts, mistakenly thinking this team was close and his desire to try to run it back in 2025 may have set this team back a few years.

The Commanders are now at a pivotal point in the Adam Peters-Dan Quinn tenure where a hard reset is in order. Washington currently has the fifth most cap space in the NFL at just over $71 million and can easily make more with some cuts and restructures.

An infusion of youth is desperately needed for the oldest roster in the NFL and if Adam does want to see a Super Bowl title in the Jayden Daniels era, he’ll need to do a much better job of acquiring younger, difference-making talent.

On a team who could be entering year three of a responsible rebuild, Washington has taken a significant step backwards and needs to ‘recalibrate” yet again – this time with a head coach on the hot season and two brand new, first-time play-calling coordinators.

A turn-around is possible, but it needs to be done the right way, and it needs to be sustainable.

The ball is in your court Adam. What’s your play?

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/washingto...h-adam-peters-miscalculated-the-recalibration

 

[Washington Commanders]

Daily Slop: 1 Mar 26 – Who will replace Tyler Biadasz as Commanders’ starting center?

Buffalo Bills center Connor McGovern (66) prepares to snap the ball during the second quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union] | Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Commanders links​

Articles​

Commanders Roundtable

Four targets to become Washington Commanders 2026 starting center​

Nick Allegretti, Washington

Maybe the most unattractive route of them all, but in a season where head coach Dan Quinn and GM Adam Peters have pointed to internal moves to address needs, maybe ruling that out for roster decisions would be premature. Following the release of Biadasz, Allegretti is the lone player currently on the roster with experience at the position where he filled in as the starter in the week 18 win against Philadelphia with Biadasz sidelined with a knee and ankle injury suffered in the Christmas Day loss vs. Dallas. Allegretti also has guard experience including three starts at right guard among his 16 appearances in 2025.

Connor Lew, Auburn

Limited draft capital may make this unrealistic, but there are top options within reach of the Commanders current draft picks. That includes Connor Lew, viewed as the top center prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft as a likely day two selection. The question mark is his health after suffering a season-ending torn ACL in Auburn’s 23-17 overtime loss against Missouri back on Oct. 18. Prior to his injury, Lew allowed just one sack across 442 career snaps with both his feet and IQ tabbed key strengths for the former SEC lineman. Washington’s lone day two pick based on current picks is the 71st overall pick in the third round, which could be when Lew hears his name called. Will Washington turn to a rookie to fill a magnified role in David Blough’s offense?

Connor McGovern, Buffalo

McGovern has been the anchor of the Bills offensive line since signing a three-year contract back in March 2023 before stepping in as the full time starter in 2024, setting him up to become a Pro Bowl selection for the first time in his career. Just 28 years old, McGovern is projected to draw a $16.3 million contract, per Spotrac, where he’s able to cash in on his place as one of the best centers across the NFL. Cap space is a question mark for the Bills with a reunion far from a sure thing, making him a more realistic target.

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Commanders Wire

5 things to know about new Commanders tight ends coach Ben Steele​

Played in the NFL

Ben Steele was a 6-foot-5, 250-pound tight end who played collegiately at NCAA Division II Mesa State (Grand Junction, Colorado). The San Francisco 49ers signed him as an undrafted free agent in the 2001 NFL Draft. For the next six seasons, Steele bounced around the NFL, spending time with the 49ers, Raiders, Seahawks, Vikings, Packers and Texans before his career ended before the 2007 season. Steele would appear in 17 career games, catching four passes for 42 yards.

Ties to Dan Quinn

When Steele was a rookie tight end for the 49ers in 2001, Quinn was in his first season as an NFL assistant coach, serving as San Francisco’s defensive quality control coach. Quinn, 31 at the time, had spent the previous seven seasons coaching at various colleges before getting his first break in the NFL. Quinn and Steele were together for two seasons with the 49ers. They would reunite again in 2019. Quinn was the head coach of the Falcons, and he hired Steele as an offensive assistant. He was promoted to tight ends coach in 2020, Quinn’s final season in Atlanta.

Steele has taught the wide zone

Mark Bullock uncovered a coaching clinic by Steele, in which he taught the outsize zone running game. Does that sound familiar? When Washington moved on from Kingsbury and promoted Blough, the Commanders were expected to move to a zone blocking scheme. They also fired offensive line coach Bobby Johnson and replaced him with assistant offensive line coach Darnell Stapleton. Why is this notable? Stapleton coached the offensive line at Florida before coming to Washington and taught the outside zone. This tells you that Blough is filling out his staff with like-minded coaches who are all on the same page with schemes and blocking principles.

Interesting hire. Steele coached with Drew Petzing the last few years, Petzing is great friends with Ben Johnson, a link to Blough.

But also, Steele worked under Klint Kubiak as assistant OL coach in Minnesota in 2021 and Denver in 2022. Could help a transition to zone running? https://t.co/E2kmmZWyrJ

— Mark Bullock (@MarkBullockNFL) February 27, 2026

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Commanders.com

Combine notebook | Prospects praise Commanders’ weapons, DBs take the field for workouts​

— We’ll start off with the offensive skill positions, and several of the top players confirmed that they had meetings with the Washington Commanders, from Ohio State’s Carnell Tate to Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love. Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson, who will not participate in workouts over the weekend, said his meeting with the Commanders stood out the most among the other teams.

“The format they had, the way they did it, kudos to them to be honest with you,” Tyson told Josina Anderson. “They had us pulling up pictures and saying what it means to you. And then their receiver coach would pull up another picture, and they’d walk through it with us and stuff like that.”

— Love, widely regarded as the best running back in the class, also confirmed that he met with the Commanders. There’s speculation about exactly how high he could be taken in the draft, but there will be plenty of temptation for teams to add him and elevate their offense. It’s possible that the Commanders, who do have several needs on defense, could be the team to take him, and he likes the idea of being paired with quarterback Jayden Daniels.

“It would be great. I think we would be a great little duo in the backfield. Jayden Daniels can use his feet very well and passes the ball very well. And then you add me in there, I can run well, I can block. I can receive. If I was to go to the Commanders, I feel like me and Jayden Daniels would pair well together.”

— The Commanders could be in the market for a backup quarterback and are looking into the crop of talent in the draft for someone to add to the room. That includes Texas Tech’s Behren Morton, who said he had a positive meeting with the Commanders.

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Commanders Roundtable

My Plea to the Washington Commanders: Don’t Get Too Cute​

In 2018, Bruce Allen selected Daron Payne at No. 13. While Payne has been a fine player and earned two Pro Bowls, the consensus at the time was that Florida State’s Derwin James was the best player available. James sat right there at 13, went to the Chargers at 17, and became an All-Pro safety. Washington is still struggling to solidify the safety position eight years later.

In 2021, the blunder was even more glaring. Ron Rivera and Martin Mayhew took Jamin Davis at No. 15. Davis was a raw prospect who had only started 11 games at Kentucky. Most evaluators had him as a second-round talent, but Washington ignored the board.

Then there was 2022. Holding the 11th pick, the Commanders traded back, passing on Chris Olave, Jameson Williams, and Kyle Hamilton. They eventually took Jahan Dotson at 16.

Lastly, we must touch on the 2023 draft and the selection of Emmanuel Forbes. Oregon’s Christian Gonzalez was widely regarded as a top-10 selection and surprisingly fell to the Commanders at 16. Fans were filled with joy as a top cornerback prospect sat right in front of them. When Roger Goodell read Forbes’ name aloud instead of Gonzalez’s, the collective heart of the DMV dropped.

Holding the No. 7 pick, they sit in an ideal position.

At 5-12, it’s obvious their needs are many. But where they sit in the draft, the prospects available fit those needs like a glove. You could argue the Commanders’ biggest holes are at Edge, Coverage Linebacker, Running Back, Wide Receiver, and Cornerback. At seven, at least one of these elite options will be available.

My request to Peters is simple: Maximize the value. Don’t trade back into a lower tier. Don’t reach for a “sleeper” or a “guy with upside.” Just take the best player available.

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Riggo’s Rag

Commanders and Emmett Johnson might not be a good fit in David Blough’s offense​

Speculation continues to rise around the Commanders potentially taking Jeremiyah Love with the No. 7 pick, but much will depend on what happens in free agency. Others will be considered, but a mid-level prospect did his chances of being considered no good at all with his less-than-stellar showing in Indianapolis.

Blough is aiming for dynamism. Analysts believe the rookie play-caller is looking to adopt more zone-blocking schemes with an emphasis on creating explosive plays in the run game. Based on his performance at the Combine, fans should cross Emmett Johnson off the list.

Johnson clocked in at 4.56 seconds in the 40-yard dash, with a 1.59-second split over 10 yards. His 35.5-inch vertical jump, 10-foot broad jump, and 7.39-second three-cone drill were in the lower percentile. The Nebraska prospect’s overall athleticism score of 64 ranked 19th among all running backs in Indianapolis.

While his production with the Cornhuskers last season — 1,451 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns from a whopping 251 carries — warrants respect, this doesn’t appear to be the sort of prospect Blough is looking for within his new system. Johnson is a battering ram rather than someone who can break off big plays off the edge. If Rodriguez gets tendered, there doesn’t seem to be much use for him.

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Podcasts & videos​

Commanders HC Dan Quinn Talks Jayden Daniels, Kliff Kingsbury & More w/ Rich Eisen | Full Interview​

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NFC East links​

The Spun

Dallas Cowboys Restructure Contracts Of Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb​

The Cowboys cleared $6.5 million in cap space last week by releasing Logan Wilson. They acquired the veteran linebacker prior to the trade deadline this past season. That move left the Cowboys at roughly $30 million over the cap. Well, that’ll no longer be the case.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter announced that Dallas restructured the contracts of quarterback Dak Prescott, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and offensive guard Tyler Smith this Saturday. Those moves will clear up $66 million in cap space, which should put “America’s Team” in prime position to spend big this offseason.

Schefter said “Jerry Jones said the Cowboys will [also] rework the contracts of DTs Kenny Clark, Quinnen Williams and Osa Odighizuwa, who are scheduled to count around $63 million against the cap.”

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The Athletic (paywall)

Will Giants take a big free-agent swing up front? What I’m hearing at the NFL combine​

Sonny Styles moves into the mix

The expectation is the Giants will cut inside linebacker Bobby Okereke, which will create $9 million in cap savings. Replacing Okereke with a stud middle linebacker will become a top priority. The Ravens consistently invested heavily at middle linebacker, starting with Ray Lewis and continuing with CJ Mosley (a 2014 first-round pick), Patrick Queen (a 2020 first-round pick) and Roquan Smith (a 2022 trade and lucrative extension).

That history makes Ohio State’s Sonny Styles a serious consideration with the No. 5 pick in the draft. The only problem with that plan is Styles might not make it to the fifth pick after an all-time performance at the combine.

They might be in on running backs

The Giants have been doing more recon than expected on running backs considering they have two cheap, productive backs on the roster. But there are questions about the longevity and upside of Cam Skattebo, whom many in the league view as more of a complementary back. Tyrone Tracy isn’t viewed as a No. 1 back either, despite filling that role for stretches in his first two seasons.

The Giants have shown interest in Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker, which is a surprise based on Schoen’s notoriously hardline stance with Saquon Barkley. Walker is expected to get the biggest contract of any running back on the market, so it seems unlikely the Giants will be the top bidder considering their bigger needs at premium positions. However, running back is an under-the-radar position that could get a sizable investment as Harbaugh builds a run-heavy offense.

Blueprint for a Kayvon Thibodeaux trade?

The New York Jets’ trade of edge rusher Jermaine Johnson to the Titans for nose tackle T’Vondre Sweat could provide a road map for the Giants with Kayvon Thibodeaux. Johnson has a $13.4 million salary on his fifth-year option. The Jets flipped him for Sweat, who will have cap hits of $1.7 million and $2.1 million over the next two seasons.

Thibodeaux’s $14.8 million salary on his fifth-year option has made him a trade chip. But the Giants don’t want to give away a useful 25-year-old at a premium position. So unless they’re able to secure a Day 2 pick for Thibodeaux, a deal for a player such as Sweat might be a better avenue to get suitable value.

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NFL league links​

Articles​

ESPN

2026 NFL combine buzz: Intel on free agency, trades, QBs​

Expect Washington to target offensive help, among a lot of other things. When asking about the top tier of free agent running backs, tight ends and linebackers, the Commanders come up a lot.

Don’t be surprised if Carolina makes some big moves on defense for the second consecutive year. The Panthers will be looking at edge-rush help and might be open to offering a lucrative contract. They need linebacker and slot corner help, too. Devin Lloyd would be an ideal fit in the middle of the defense.

The Eagles could look in-house for free agent splashes. They will attempt to re-sign Jaelan Phillips, who proved an ideal fit for the defense. They could also extend the contracts of defensive tackles Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter.

Something an NFL head coach said to me, unsolicited: “Watch for Tua [Tagovailoa] in Atlanta.”

The sense at the end of the week is that Trey Hendrickson (Bengals) and Odafe Oweh (Chargers) will probably not be franchise-tagged. That could change over the next 48 hours, but Oweh has not received any indication that he will be tagged, and most around the league would be surprised if the Bengals tag Hendrickson. The overwhelming belief in league circles is that the Jets will use the transition tag on running back Breece Hall ($11.3 million), though.

Chris Paul named a Sleeper Free Agent:

Commanders offensive guard Chris Paul: He had 15 starts last season with a powerful style of play; starting guards with a pulse get paid.

Commanders expected to be very active in FA:

Expect Washington to target offensive help, among a lot… https://t.co/stleFi6l4R

— COMMANDERS FOOTBALL (@HogsHaven) March 1, 2026

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NFL Draft / Combine​

NFL.com

2026 NFL combine: What We Learned during Saturday’s activities in Indianapolis​

3) Massive O-lineman says Eagles showing “a lot” of interest in him. At 6-7 and 350-plus pounds, Alabama’s Kadyn Proctor is hard to miss. He’ll be closely evaluated by every NFL team looking for help on the offensive line, as NFL.com analyst Daniel Jeremiah’s No. 29 prospect in the draft, but Proctor noted on Saturday that the Eagles are paying particularly close attention.

“It was good,” Proctor said of his meeting with the reigning NFC East champions. “I think they have shown a lot of interest in me. I really liked the vibe with them, too.”

General manager Howie Roseman could look to snag the eventual replacement for six-time Pro Bowl right tackle Lane Johnson, who will turn 36 in May, but there could be a lot of teams competing for Proctor’s services come April.

One of those squads might be the Lions, who pick six spots before the Eagles in Round 1 at No. 17 overall. Proctor told reporters his combine meeting with the Lions went very well.

5) Will Tate’s 40 time limit his draft ceiling? Ohio State WR Carnell Tate‘s hopes of landing in the top 10 of the 2026 NFL Draft might have just became a little more complicated.

The 6-2 1/4, 192-pounder ran an official 40-yard dash time of 4.53 seconds on Saturday at the combine. The 40 isn’t the end-all-be-all metric for the position, and we’ve seen several players succeed despite logging disappointing times. But as for being selected with a top-10 draft pick? That could be a steep climb now, especially with Tate weighing less than 200 pounds.

Most recent top-10 receivers have run the 40 at 4.5 seconds or faster — including several receivers bigger than Tate. Yes, we’re talking hundredths of a second here, but every one of them counts.

History suggests Tate might need something in the 4.4s at Ohio State’s pro day in order to help his chances, assuming Tate wants another crack at the 40. Consider what happened with a comparable physical specimen, CeeDee Lamb; Lamb ran a 4.5 flat at 6-2 and 198 pounds and went to the Cowboys 17th overall in 2020. In other words, Tate might have some work to do to ensure a top-10 slot, even in a year where the top of the draft feels a little thinner than normal.

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aBit o’Twitter​

Notable 2026 Unrestricted Free Agent edge rushers

• Trey Hendrickson
• Bradley Chubb
• Khalil Mack
• Haason Reddick
• Joey Bosa
• Malcolm Koonce
• Leonard Floyd
• Denico Autry
• Yetur Gross-Matos
• Dre’Mont Jones
• Samson Ebukam
• Arden Key
• Joseph Ossai
• Tyquan…

— NFL Stats (@NFL_Stats) February 28, 2026

The fastest 40s of the Combine so far and their projected speed rating on @EAMaddenNFL pic.twitter.com/vNeK4pgcci

— NFL (@NFL) March 1, 2026

8 prospects ran a sub 7.00 in the 3-cone this year:

6.71 – Germie Bernard (206 lbs.)
6.86 – Vinny Anthony (183)
6.89 – Haynes King (212)
6.90 – Dani Dennis-Sutton (256)
6.90 – Jacob Rodriguez (231)
6.95 – Kaden Wetjen (193)
6.97 – Kyle Louis (220)
6.98 – Malachi Fields (218)

— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) March 1, 2026

From SportsCenter this morning:

• Where will Jeremiyah Love land?
• Circle the name Demond Claiborne today pic.twitter.com/y3bfaIaNEH

— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) February 28, 2026

Jeremiyah Love ran the same 40 time as Jahmyr Gibbs (4.36) despite being 15 pounds heavier. pic.twitter.com/i8jrocGnGL

— Grant Paulsen (@granthpaulsen) February 28, 2026

This is a great discussion of the matter – not just people giving bold opinions based on college production or speaking with certainty based upon historical norms. Historically, Bain is trying to be a unicorn from a performance vs physical trait standpoint. We will see how it… https://t.co/449iwDYhfe

— Lance Zierlein (@LanceZierlein) February 28, 2026

Under the radar tight end Commanders should target in free agency

Joe Nicholson, Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images https://t.co/xJFQtvGv4s pic.twitter.com/WSBOBYMa2g

— Commanders Wire (@Washington_Wire) March 1, 2026

Former #Giants and #AZCardinals OL Justin Pugh has accepted a role as commissioner of the Italian Football League with the intent of growing the game in Italy, which could one day join the collection of European countries to host an NFL game. pic.twitter.com/JisHzEYTki

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) February 28, 2026

Snatched it. pic.twitter.com/MCSfuTFIxR

— DC Defenders (@UFLDefenders) February 28, 2026

Hilarious! What the words to The Lion King song actually mean… pic.twitter.com/42N7ctwGrL

— Don Keith (@RealDonKeith) February 27, 2026

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Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/daily-slo...e-tyler-biadasz-as-commanders-starting-center

 

[Washington Commanders]

2026 NFL Scouting Combine Workouts: OL

Feb 28, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Memphis offensive lineman Travis Burke (OL09) speaks to members of the media during the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images | Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images

The offensive linemen will be doing drills at the NFL Scouting Combine today. The Washington Commanders will be very interested in today’s workouts.

Sunday, March 1st: Offensive linemen do on-field workouts

Time, TV, and streaming info​

• Date: February 26th-March 1st
• Time: 2/26-27 3 pm; 2/28-3/1 1 pm
• Location: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, Ind.
• TV: NFL Network
• Streaming: FuboTV, NFL.com

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OFFICIAL INVITE LIST​

Offensive Linemen​

• Chris Adams, Memphis
• Austin Barber, Florida
• Evan Beerntsen, Northwestern
• Markel Bell, Miami
• Chase Bisontis, Texas A&M
• Jude Bowry, Boston College
• Parker Brailsford, Alabama
• Joshua Braun, Kentucky
• Travis Burke, Memphis
• Jager Burton, Kentucky
• DJ Campbell, Texas
• Fernando Carmona, Arkansas
• Kage Casey, Boise State
• Pat Coogan, Indiana
• Anez Cooper, Miami
• Dametrious Crownover, Texas A&M
• Enrique Cruz Jr., Kansas
• J.C. Davis, Illinois
• Garrett DiGiorgio, UCLA
• Gennings Dunker, Iowa
• Fa’alili Fa’amoe, Wake Forest
• Spencer Fano, Utah
• Jalen Farmer, Kentucky
• Monroe Freeling, Georgia
• Matt Gulbin, Michigan State
• Alex Harkey, Oregon
• Sam Hecht, Kansas State
• Alan Herron, Maryland
• Max Iheanachor, Arizona State
• Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State
• Logan Jones, Iowa
• Connor Lew, Auburn
• Caleb Lomu, Utah
• Francis Mauigoa, Miami
• Blake Miller, Clemson
• Micah Morris, Georgia
• Febechi Nwaiwu, Oklahoma
• Brian Parker II, Duke
• Diego Pounds, Mississippi
• Emmanuel Pregnon, Oregon
• Kadyn Proctor, Alabama
• Ar’maj Reed-Adams, Texas A&M
• Jaeden Roberts, Alabama
• Keylan Rutledge, Georgia Tech
• Billy Schrauth, Notre Dame
• Drew Shelton, Penn State
• Jake Slaughter, Florida
• Beau Stephens, Iowa
• Logan Taylor, Boston College
• Caleb Tiernan, Northwestern
• Keagen Trost, Missouri
• Dillon Wade, Auburn
• Aamil Wagner, Notre Dame
• Carver Willis, Washington
• Jeremiah Wright, Auburn
• Trey Zuhn III, Texas A&M

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Hogs Haven Media Information​

Podcasts: Apple Podcasts | Pandora | Spotify | Podbean | iHeartRadio

Facebook Page: Click here to like our page

Twitter: Follow @HogsHaven

Instagram: Follow @Hogs_Haven

Threads: Follow @hogs_haven

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Manager: Scott Jennings: Follow @ScottJenningsHH

Buy Washington gear at the Hogs Haven Fanshop

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NFL News twitter feed

Washington Commanders twitter feed

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Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/draft/401923/2026-nfl-scouting-combine-workouts-ol

 

[Washington Commanders]

Washington Commanders are releasing CB Marshon Lattimore

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - OCTOBER 27: Marshon Lattimore #2 of the Washington Commanders reacts during the second quarter against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium on October 27, 2025 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Washington Commanders are reportedly releasing CB Marshon Lattimore, a move that clears $18.5 million for this season’s salary cap with no injury settlement required. This move has been expected since before last season ended, but there were questions about an injury settlement due to Lattimore tearing his ACL vs the Seahawks in early November. The Commanders had $71,284,969 in available cap space before this move per Overthecap.

General manager Adam Peters acquired Lattimore at the trade deadline in 2024. It was a move he said would help the Commanders that season, and in the future. Washington sent third-, fourth- and sixth-round picks in the 2025 draft to the New Orleans Saints in exchange for Lattimore and a 2025 fifth-round pick. He was still dealing with a hamstring injury at the time, and didn’t suit up for the Commanders for the first four games he was with the team. Lattimore played in two games during the regular season, and all three playoff games. He started every game last season until his Week 9 injury.

This has been the expected move since his injury in November. They wanted to discuss the matter with his agent in person at the combine prior to making any move. But this was always the expected outcome. https://t.co/lcl2iF5TqC

— John Keim (@john_keim) March 2, 2026

The Lattimore move was expected, and recent gun charges seemed to put the final touches on his exit from Washington. Now the Commanders need to add another CB or two to a roster that has Mike Sainristil who is coming off a disappointing season, and Trey Amos, who’s rookie season ended early due to a broken leg. The Commanders also fired Joe Whitt Jr and hired new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones who will be installing his own system.

Def Interceptions	Fumbles	Tackles
Season	Age	Team	Lg	Pos	G	GS	Int	Yds	IntTD	Lng	PD	FF	Fmb	FR	Yds	FRTD	Sk	Comb	Solo	Ast	TFL	QBHits	Sfty	AV	Awards
2017	21	NOR	NFL	RCB	13	13	5	85	1	33	18	1	0	1	0	0	0.0	52	43	9	1	0	0	8	PB,AP DRoY-1
2018	22	NOR	NFL	RCB	16	16	2	0	0	0	12	4	0	3	91	0	0.0	59	49	10	1	0	0	6
2019	23	NOR	NFL	RCB	14	14	1	0	0	0	14	0	0	0	0	0	0.0	57	46	11	1	0	0	7	PB
2020	24	NOR	NFL	RCB	14	14	2	13	0	13	11	0	0	0	0	0	0.0	62	52	10	2	0	0	8	PB
2021	25	NOR	NFL	RCB	16	16	3	35	0	20	19	0	0	1	1	0	0.0	68	55	13	0	0	0	9	PB
2022	26	NOR	NFL	RCB	7	7	1	12	1	12	4	0	0	0	0	0	0.0	29	20	9	0	0	0	3
2023	27	NOR	NFL	CB	10	10	1	0	0	0	8	0	0	0	0	0	0.0	48	39	9	2	0	0	4
2024	28	2TM	NFL	CB	9	9	0	0	0	0	5	0	0	0	0	0	0.0	34	25	9	0	0	0	3
2024	28	NOR	NFL	CB	7	7	0	0	0	0	2	0	0	0	0	0	0.0	30	22	8	0	0	0	2
2024	28	WAS	NFL	CB	2	2	0	0	0	0	3	0	0	0	0	0	0.0	4	3	1	0	0	0	1
2025	29	WAS	NFL	CB	9	9	1	0	0	0	7	0	0	1	0	0	0.0	27	16	11	1	0	0	3
9 Yrs	108	108	16	145	2	33	98	5	0	6	92	0	0.0	436	345	91	8	0	0	51
17 Game Avg	17	17	3	23	0	33	15	1	0	1	14	0	0.0	69	54	14	1	0	0	6
NOR (8 Yrs)	97	97	15	145	2	33	88	5	0	5	92	0	0.0	405	326	79	7	0	0	47
WAS (2 Yrs)	11	11	1	0	0	0	10	0	0	1	0	0	0.0	31	19	12	1	0	0	4

Defense & Fumbles Table

Provided by Pro-Football-Reference.com: View Original Table
Generated 3/2/2026.

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/nfl-free-...ton-commanders-releasing-cb-marshon-lattimore

 

[Washington Commanders]

DC Defenders 2026 Training Camp Week One Report

ST LOUIS, MISSOURI - JUNE 14: Jordan Ta’amu #10 of DC Defenders holds the UFL Championship trophy and the UFL Championship MVP trophy as he poses for a photo after the UFL Championship game against the Michigan Panthers at The Dome at America’s Center on June 14, 2025 in St Louis, Missouri. The DC Defenders defeated the Michigan Panthers 58-34. (Photo by Scott Rovak/UFL/Getty Images) | Getty Images

With the first week of UFL Training Camp winding down in Arlington, we have plenty of news to cover and break down as we inch closer to the start of the 2026 season.

Arlington pic.twitter.com/0ixo6mU5dG

— DC Defenders (@UFLDefenders) February 20, 2026

Training Camp Roster (3/2)​

(Credits: Nick Thorn)

Day One/Two/Three: Onboarding​

After countless phone conversations and Zoom calls over the winter months, players and coaches finally met up in Arlington on Feb. 20th for initial onboarding, which included medicals and physicals/conditioning. Fortunately for DC, they have a significant portion of their 2025 roster returning this season and the ‘meet and greet’ segment is kept to a minimum.

This is our mindset. pic.twitter.com/ePiIoqfqKF

— DC Defenders (@UFLDefenders) February 20, 2026

During the late hours on Feb. 21st, the UFL Communications X account announced DC Defenders tight end Briley Moore and cornerback Deandre Baker were removed from the team’s roster. Moore and Baker were major starting contributors in last season’s championship campaign.

One day later, Defenders defensive back Trey Dean was also removed from the roster, via the transaction wire.

Defenders HC Shannon Harris spoke about the situation during his Wednesday media presser this week, stating the team expects Baker and Dean to return soon. It is uncertain whether Moore will return.

According to @UFLDefenders HC Shannon Harris during his Wednesday presser, CB Deandre Baker and S Trey Dean III will return to the team at some point soon.

Harris seemed comfortable with Baker and Dean slotting back into action once they return.#UFL

— Christian Paolantonio (@CPaolantonio_) February 25, 2026

Jordan Ta’amu Media​

Defenders quarterback Jordan Ta’amu was doing his media rounds this week, which started by hanging out with the Around The UFL crew from PFN, then meeting with DC media a few days later on Zoom.

Ta’amu talked about plenty of different subjects during his media tour, including the rule changes coming to the UFL. Ta’amu noted the importance of having a strong kicker with the new four-point field goal rule, citing his confidence in Matthew “Matty Ice” McCrane. He also mentioned his excitement about the new rule that forces teams to go for it on fourth down if they pass the 50-yard line.

Ta’amu also reflected on his ultra-successful 2025 season, and looking ahead to this spring.

"I didn't know you could win both of those awards, but I saw it last year." #Defenders QB Jordan Ta'amu (@JTaamu10) tells @JamesBakerUFL what his goals are for the #UFL this year

Full Episode: https://t.co/gxJLyxDfeX pic.twitter.com/RxWVu3FUqm

— Around The UFL (@AroundTheUFL) February 25, 2026

Rest of Week: Initial On-Field Practice​

The initial on-field work for DC included uppers (helmets and shoulder pads) with light contact, as it will continue to ramp-up over the next week.

The emergence of wide receiver Montrell Washington will be one we continue to track throughout the 2026 season. We asked Coach Harris about Washington during his presser, who cited his “speed and explosion” as a difference maker. In the same response, Harris mentioned the glaring loss of Chris Rowland and how Washington could also impact the return game on special teams in a similar way.

SPOTLIGHT: @UFLDefenders WR Montrell Washington, who spent last summer with @Giants in camp, is starting to pique my interest as a potential playmaker this spring for DC.

Washington is a former 5th round pick of the @Broncos, and possesses impressive KOR ability.

A true GADGET. pic.twitter.com/EQpRrB6ghe

— Christian Paolantonio (@CPaolantonio_) February 25, 2026

Pro Football Newsroom’s on-site coverage at training camp has confirmed Washington is “heavily involved” with the starters in the first week of camp, alongside Ty Scott. Keke Coutee appears to be picking up where he left off from last season, remaining a down-field target in the passing game. Cornell Powell reportedly tweaked a muscle early in camp, and has been on the side-field working indy since.

It is also worth noting that running back Abram Smith is reportedly looking much sharper and quicker compared to last season around this time when coming off of a torn ACL injury. The XFL 2023 rushing leader is hoping to make up for lost time this upcoming year.

On the defensive side, Sam Kidd and Gareon Conley will continue to be staples on the backend as they get used to a few new names around them, including Leon O’Neal Jr. and Azizi Hearn. All four players had an impressive first week of camp, according to James Larsen on-site.

One of the most intriguing stories to follow throughout camp will be defensive back Gabe Taylor and his quest to crack the 50-man roster ahead of Week 1.

Carrying the #21 legacy in the DMV.

DC Defenders safety Gabe Taylor honors his late brother, Washington legend Sean Taylor, by continuing the legacy in the nation’s capital. pic.twitter.com/xSkFev25Zq

— DC Defenders (@UFLDefenders) February 25, 2026

Snatched it. pic.twitter.com/MCSfuTFIxR

— DC Defenders (@UFLDefenders) February 28, 2026

Gabe, the younger brother of Washington Redskins legend Sean Taylor, played at Rice for his entire five-year college career before going pro. There is already a palpable buzz around the DMV area with another Taylor potentially hitting the gridiron this spring.

Moving onto another Gabe, on Friday evening Defenders linebacker Gabriel Murphy was moved to the UFL’s Retired List, alongside his twin brother and Storm linebacker Grayson Murphy. While the reasoning is currently unclear, we wish the best to the Murphy brothers moving forward.

A Look Ahead…​

Next week, the Defenders will be in full-pads as they gear-up for their first scrimmage of training camp against the AJ McCarron-led Birmingham Stallions.

The scrimmage is set to take place at 10:00am on March 7th, and it remains unlikely that it will be broadcasted.

What do you expect from the DC Defenders in 2026? Will they become back-to-back UFL Champions? Let us know down in the comments below!

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/general/403592/dc-defenders-2026-training-camp-week-one-report

 

[Washington Commanders]

Jake Moody won’t be tendered by the Commanders and will be a free agent

LANDOVER, MD - NOVEMBER 30: Jake Moody #16 of the Washington Commanders jogs on the sideline during the second half of the NFL game against the Denver Broncos at Northwest Stadium on November 30, 2025 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Washington Commanders will reportedly be in the market for another kicker after a report that they don’t plan on tendering Jake Moody. The lowest tender amount for a restricted free agent this season is $3.52 million for the right of first refusal tender. Moody was signed to replace Matt Gay who was their big special teams signing before the season started. He had been with the 49ers since they selected him in the third round in 2023, but was waived after a bad opening game. Moody ended up on the Bears practice squad and played against the Commanders, scoring half of Chicago’s points in a victory.

The Washington Commanders will have a new kicker for the third season in a row under the leadership of general manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn. Brandon McManus was the big signing in their inaugural season, but sexual harassment accusations led to his release. Gay was last season’s “big-name” kicker acquisition that didn’t work out. Injuries during the season have added to the kicker rotation over the last two seasons. Special teams coordinator Larry Izzo is the only coordinator left after two seasons, and he’ll get another chance to find a long-term kicker very soon.

Sources: The #Commanders are not planning to tender K Jake Moody as an RFA. He will become a free agent.

The 26-year-old was 18/20 on FGs last year during his time in Chicago and Washington, including 2/2 from 50+, with a long of 56. pic.twitter.com/7ixltwFDWM

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) March 3, 2026

0-19	20-29	30-39	40-49	50+	Scoring	Kickoffs
Season	Age	Team	Lg	Pos	G	GS	FGA	FGM	FGA	FGM	FGA	FGM	FGA	FGM	FGA	FGM	FGA	FGM	Lng	FG%	XPA	XPM	XP%	KO	KOYds	TB	TB%	KOAvg	AV	Awards
2023	24	SFO	NFL	K	17	0	0	0	7	7	9	8	6	4	3	2	25	21	57	84.0	61	60	98.4	90	5680	54	60.0	63	3
2024	25	SFO	NFL	K	14	0	0	0	9	9	5	5	11	6	9	4	34	24	53	70.6	33	32	97.0	68	4256	49	72.1	63	0
2025	26	3TM	NFL	K	9	0	0	0	7	5	8	7	6	5	2	2	23	19	56	82.6	16	15	93.8	43	2567	10	23.3	60	2
2025	26	SFO	NFL	K	1	0	0	0	1	0	2	1	0	0	0	0	3	1	32	33.3	2	2	100.0	4	251	2	50.0	63	0
2025	26	CHI	NFL	K	2	0	0	0	2	2	3	3	4	3	0	0	9	8	48	88.9	3	3	100.0	13	800	4	30.8	62	1
2025	26	WAS	NFL	K	6	0	0	0	4	3	3	3	2	2	2	2	11	10	56	90.9	11	10	90.9	26	1516	4	15.4	58	1
3 Yrs	40	0	0	0	23	21	22	20	23	15	14	8	82	64	57	78.0	110	107	97.3	201	12503	113	56.2	62	5
17 Game Avg	17	0	0	0	10	9	9	9	10	6	6	3	35	27	57	78.0	47	45	97.3	85	5314	48	56.2	62	2
SFO (3 Yrs)	32	0	0	0	17	16	16	14	17	10	12	6	62	46	57	74.2	96	94	97.9	162	10187	105	64.8	63	3
WAS (1 Yr)	6	0	0	0	4	3	3	3	2	2	2	2	11	10	56	90.9	11	10	90.9	26	1516	4	15.4	58	1
CHI (1 Yr)	2	0	0	0	2	2	3	3	4	3	0	0	9	8	48	88.9	3	3	100.0	13	800	4	30.8	62	1

Kicking Table

Provided by Pro-Football-Reference.com: View Original Table
Generated 3/3/2026.

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/nfl-free-...ed-by-the-commanders-and-will-be-a-free-agent

 

[Washington Commanders]

Daily Slop: 3 Mar 26 – Could the Commanders be interested in a reunion with WR Dyami Brown?

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Dyami Brown (5) pulls in a pass before an NFL football game at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, November 16, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union] | Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Commanders links​

Articles​

Over the Cap

Commanders to Release CB Marshon Lattimore​

The Commanders have informed CB Marshon Lattimore that he will be released from his contract. Lattimore was entering the final year of a contract that he signed back in 2021 with the Saints that was worth $97 million over five years. He was due to earn $18.5 million this season and his release will save the Commanders all $18.5 million on the cap as there was no dead money on his contract.

He tore his ACL last year and is recovering from that. If he is not recovered he will collect another $2.1 million from the Commanders this year and likely a smaller amount next season. The Commanders will have about $90 million in cap room which is 2nd or 3rd in the NFL.

It's because he's injured. It's the Injury Protection Benefit, I believe: pic.twitter.com/8iyar5ZSN0

— Bill-in-Bangkok (@billhorgan2005) March 3, 2026

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Heavy.com

Washington Commanders’ Top 5 Replacements for CB Marshon Lattimore​

Eric Stokes, Las Vegas Raiders: Age – 27 Years Old

At 27 years old, Eric Stokes would provide the Commanders a lockdown option on the outside. Yahoo Sports provided an in-depth look at the corners’ value, stating, “He has never produced much in the way of interceptions or PDs, because he starves himself of opportunities by shutting down the receivers in his coverage.” Stokes posted an overall grade of 73.6 according to Pro Football Focus, which ranked 18th out of 114 corners. Spotrac lists his market value at $7.4 million, with him projected to sign a $22.1 million contract across three years. The only issue with Stokes is that the Raiders, who have the second-most cap space in the league, will most likely attempt to re-sign him. However, there is always a chance that Stokes would want a fresh start or that the Commanders simply outbid them.

Montaric Brown, Jacksonville Jaguars: Age – 26 Years Old

Yahoo Sports highlights Montaric Brown as an underrated free agent corner option in this class. “Brown has shown steady improvement in coverage at outside CB for the Jaguars throughout his rookie season. By 2025, he had developed into a quality starter in terms of coverage and ball production. He may be flying under the radar with fans, but NFL front offices will know who he is.” PFF graded Brown as the 21st-best corner in 2025, highlighting his 75.5 coverage grade as the 13th-best. Spotrac projects him to sign a three-year contract worth up to $27.7 million.

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Heavy.com

Nick Allegretti : Signing two-year extension​

Allegretti and the Commanders agreed to terms Monday on a two-year contract extension, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports. Allegretti will be a candidate to start at center for Washington next season, with the team releasing Tyler Biadasz (ankle). Last year, Allegretti started two games at center in place of an injured Biadasz, looking notably better than he did in 2024, when he suited up for all 17 regular-season games but had to be switched from LG to RG and was then benched. It remains possible that the Commanders will add another option at center in free agency or the 2026 NFL Draft.

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The Athletic (paywall)

What we learned about the Commanders at the combine​

• Veteran defensive tackle Daron Payne is expected back for 2026, but there have been no talks about his future beyond that. The only player Washington has talked to about a potential extension is left tackle Laremy Tunsil. Peters has said repeatedly that he wants to get a new deal done with Tunsil sooner rather than later, to avoid a repeat of McLaurin’s extended negotiations. Tunsil has a year remaining on his current deal.

Neither Peters nor Quinn expressed a similar desire to get new deals done when asked about some of the team’s impending free agents. Asked about guard Chris Paul, Quinn said, “We’re going through the whole process and everybody counts in that,” which was similar to the answer he gave in his end-of-season presser when he was asked about former offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury.

Asked about Samuel, Quinn praised the receiver’s competitiveness and lamented the Commanders’ inability to use him the way they wanted because of all the injuries at the position. Quinn didn’t mention Samuel’s future.

Quinn also praised Bobby Wagner and his Walter Payton Man of the Year recognition, saying this about the linebacker’s future: “We haven’t got into the specifics of what’s ahead and where we’re at with that yet. That’ll be in the days and weeks ahead.”

• The Commanders pre-empted free agency by making some interesting moves to their offensive line. They agreed to a new two-year deal with Andrew Wylie after he showed his versatility at guard and tackle last season. Then they surprisingly cut center Tyler Biadasz, the anchor of the line the last two seasons. Biadasz certainly didn’t have his best season in 2025, but he wasn’t a glaring liability like Washington has at so many other spots. Biadasz had a year left on his contract and his early exit ensures Daniels will have not just a new coordinator and a new system in 2026, but a new center, too.

Then on Monday, the Commanders re-signed guard Nick Allegretti to a two-year deal, a league source confirmed. It was another surprise considering he was benched after the first two weeks of starting at left guard last season. But scrapping the final year on his contract, which included a $7.1 million salary cap charge, means the Commanders can lower his cap hit this season.

Some notable contract dates coming up: Payne has a $5 million roster bonus that is due March 13, Lattimore has a $2 million bonus due if he’s still on the roster on March 15, and April 1 is the deadline for McLaurin’s $10 million option bonus and Tunsil’s $4 million roster bonus. [These bonuses are already factored into Over the Cap’s estimated cap space calculations].

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ESPN

How the Ohio State Buckeyes can help the Commanders in the draft​

Edge rusher Arvell Reese, linebacker Sonny Styles, safety Caleb Downs and receiver Carnell Tate are the players who could be taken high. And if the Commanders trade back, as one team source pointed out, defensive tackle Kayden McDonald could be added to the list as well.

That will make Ohio State’s pro day on March 25 an important one for Washington.

“It makes it easier to see all of them at once,” general manager Adam Peters said. “There’s a lot of guys on that defense that are really good.”

Clearly, players from other schools will be in the mix as well; much will depend on what Washington does in free agency. But the Commanders need to provide new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones with more talent. Their defense finished 27th in scoring and last in yards in 2025.

Here’s how each Buckeye would fill a need

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Commanders.com

2026 free agency preview | WRs and RBs​

Kenneth Gainwell, Pittsburgh Steelers

• Gainwell showed that he still has plenty left to offer last season, hitting a career-high 1,023 scrimmage yards and eight total touchdowns. He also showed that he’s capable of being a quality starter if given the opportunity; in his two starts against the Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears, he rushed for 201 yards on 29 carries and caught all 12 of his targets for 65 yards.

Jeremy McNichols, Washington Commanders

• McNichols will be 30 during the 2026 season but has put up career numbers in his two seasons with Washington. He’s been a reliable source of veteran leadership for Jacory Croskey-Merritt and has stepped into a larger role when necessary. The Commanders want to get younger, but McNichols has shown he can add value to a backfield.

Romeo Doubs, Green Bay Packers

• Doubs has remained solid throughout his time with the Packers, catching 63% of his passes with 21 touchdowns in four seasons. The former fourth-round pick was a strong No. 2 option last season, as Matthew Golden became the Packers’ go-to playmaker in the passing game. His ability to run complex routes and create separation could prove useful for any offense with a quarterback who knows how to get the ball to their weapons in space.

Deebo Samuel, Washington Commanders

• It wasn’t part of the Commanders’ plans for Samuel to be their No. 1 threat on offense, but the multitude of injuries at wideout forced them to put him into a more featured role. Samuel caught 72 passes — the second most of his career — and hit a career-high in catch rate. Samuel is now 30, but his versatility and production could be useful for Washington if they decide to re-sign him.

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Commanders Roundtable

Frankie Luvu Is Ready to Remind Commanders What He’s Capable Of​

With a new defensive coordinator in place and a front office committed to rebuilding the unit around him, 2026 looks like the year Luvu reclaims his status as one of the more dangerous linebackers in the NFL.

Can Frankie Luvu return to his 2024 form for the #Commanders?

Daronte Jones said he loves him & wants to get him going downhill.

2024:
-9 sacks
-42 pressures
-75 tackles/26 assists
-2nd team all Pro

2025:
-4 sacks
-25 pressures
-54 solo tackles/26 assists
-3 ff#RaiseHail pic.twitter.com/5v8Mfaf9qY

— Carolina Commander (@SC_Commanderr) March 2, 2026

Under defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. [in 2025] , the Commanders made the bizarre decision to reduce Luvu’s role as a pass rusher significantly. The results were predictable. Luvu’s sack total plummeted from 8.0 to just 3.0. Washington’s defense collapsed so thoroughly that the team finished dead last in the NFL in yards allowed and 27th in points surrendered. The Commanders fell from a 12-5 record to a miserable 5-12, and Whitt was stripped of his play-calling duties midseason after Washington allowed 34 or more points in four of seven games. He was fired entirely once the season mercifully ended.

Still, even in a down year under a scheme that misused him, the underlying production tells a different story. Luvu still logged four sacks, three forced fumbles — ranking second among all linebackers — and 25 total pressures. He played the sixth-most total defensive snaps of any linebacker in football. The effort never wavered. The scheme around him did.

Why Daronte Jones Changes Everything

What Jones brings is a coverage-flexible, multiple-front system that puts a premium on versatile linebackers who can rush the passer and drop into zone coverage. That is Luvu’s exact skill set. In 2024, Luvu was deployed as a hybrid edge-off-ball linebacker who attacked from multiple alignments, giving offensive coordinators genuine headaches every week. Whitt’s 2025 scheme effectively neutered that versatility. Jones is expected to restore it.

Vikings pressure (prsh) & blitz % by yr:

2020: 25% prsh, #32 | 27% blitz, #19
2021: 31% prsh, #18 | 27% blitz, #14
2022: 31% prsh, #19 | 22% blitz, #22
**Flores arrives**
2023: 31% prsh, #25 | 50% blitz, #1
2024: 35% prsh, #8 | 39% blitz, #1
2025: 43% prsh, #1 | 48% blitz, #1

— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) March 2, 2026

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Commanders Wire

Could Commanders reunite with Dyami Brown in free agency?​

The Commanders spent a third-round pick on wide receiver Dyami Brown in the 2021 NFL Draft. Brown’s career never really took off in Washington, but he did finish strong in 2024, developing a rapport with Daniels late in the season. Brown was terrific in the Commanders’ first two playoff games and hit free agency at the right time.

Brown signed a one-year, $10 million deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Commanders liked Brown, but weren’t going to match that offer. Brown was expected to be a big part of Jacksonville’s offense in 2025, but that never materialized. Instead, Parker Washington enjoyed a breakout season, and the Jags acquired Jakobi Meyers via trade. Myers was so good for the Jaguars that they signed him to a contract extension. Brown was relegated to the bench and finished the year with only 20 receptions for 227 yards and a touchdown.

He’s a free agent again, and his value is much lower. Spotrac projects Brown to earn a one-year contract worth $2.1 million in 2026.

That’s much more affordable. Would Washington be interested in a reunion?

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ESPN

Commanders agree to pay D.C. $1M to settle 2022 lawsuit​

The Commanders have agreed to pay $1 million to the District of Columbia to settle a lawsuit from 2022 that alleged the NFL team under previous ownership colluded to deceive fans by lying about an inquiry into sexual misconduct and a persistently hostile work environment.

Dan Snyder owned the team at the time of the lawsuit, before selling to Josh Harris’ group in 2023 for a then-record in North American professional sports of $6.05 billion. The league fined Snyder $60 million on the way out after an independent investigation found he sexually harassed a team employee and oversaw executives who deliberately withheld millions of dollars in revenue from other clubs.

The settlement also includes the Commanders agreeing to maintain a human resources department, an anti-harassment policy and an investigation protocol for complaints of misconduct. The team declined to comment on the lawsuit and the settlement of it.

The Commanders three years ago settled a separate lawsuit with the Washington, D.C., government over season-ticket deposits.

D.C. Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb announced the settlement Monday, “The Commanders’ current owners have commendably opened a new chapter in the team’s history, committing to ensure all employees are protected from abuse and treated with dignity,” Schwalb said in a statement. “Every business operating in the District has an obligation to provide honest information to its customers, and the Commanders’ loyal fan base deserves no less.”

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Podcasts & videos​

Thanks to @RyanFowler for joining us on our #MockDraft Monday, #NFCEast edition.

Here is the full-episode, since X Streaming has been an issue.

We conducted a three-round Mock Draft, "NFC East-style" post combine. It was a great exercise.@DougMcCrayNFL pic.twitter.com/hp705n81ZR

— George Carmi (@Gcarmi21) March 2, 2026

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🎙 With @kevinsheehanDC:

Spend FA $: More offense, defense, split?
FA targets: Trey Hendrickson or spread wealth? Preferred WRs
Coaching staff curiosity
Where Mariota fits in QB market
Love or Downs at 7
Marshon Lattimore era overhttps://t.co/OGMzN6jCYr

— Ben Standig (@BenStandig) March 3, 2026

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Who stays, who goes. Looking at the Commanders free agents. More. ⁦@ESPNRichmond⁩ https://t.co/0sen3NjZ2U

— John Keim (@john_keim) March 3, 2026

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Episode 1,272 – Guest: @JustinM_NFL on targets for the Washington Commanders at No. 7 off the Combine. In-depth analysis of Caleb Downs, Sonny Styles, Arvell Reese, Carnell Tate, Makai Lemon, Jordyn Tyson, Rueben Bain vs David Bailey, Jeremiyah Love & more.https://t.co/RIuFqbrFRJ

— Al Galdi (@AlGaldi) March 3, 2026

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NFC East links​

Bleeding Green Nation

Eagles Rumor: Dallas Goedert “definitely” will NOT return to Philly​

After 8 years in Philadelphia, Dallas Goedert is expected to play elsewhere in 2026

NBC Sports Matthew Berry put together 35 notables based on what he was hearing, and one interesting thing as it relates to the Eagles, was about Dallas Goedert.

“30. While many of the Eagles headlines these days are about whether A.J. Brown will stay or go, one player I’m told that will definitely be moving on from Philly this offseason is Dallas Goedert.“

Eagles GM Howie Roseman spoke to reporters early in the combine and said that the team was very appreciative of the veteran tight end, and that he would have conversations with Goedert’s agents while in Indianapolis. Some people took that to mean that the team would be competitive in trying to bring him back, but it more realistically meant that they would talk and see if they’re even on the same page as far as terms.

The Eagles let Goedert explore free agency last season, but after a very convincing call from QB Jalen Hurts, the TE opted to return to Philly on a lesser deal than he would’ve gotten elsewhere. It doesn’t sound like Goedert will take another team-friendly deal and is probably looking to capitalize off his record-setting 2025 season and get paid big money.

As for the Eagles, the tight end position is thin at best with three of the four TEs from the 2025 roster set to hit free agency. Zach Ertz is an option to bring back as a veteran presence in the room, but the team is expected to add to the depth through the draft, and specifically look for guys who can better contribute to run-blocking than what the group did last season.

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Bleeding Green Nation

Eagles Film Review: Losing Nakobe Dean is sad but understandable​

Dean is a very good linebacker and a legitimately exceptional pressure weapon. From a pure football standpoint, keeping him is easy to justify. From a roster construction standpoint, it is very hard to make it work.

With Campbell arriving as a first-round investment and expected to anchor the position going forward, and with the scheme not structured around the linebacker blitz packages that make Dean most dangerous, the path to a second contract in Philadelphia is narrow. Another team will offer a deal that reflects his ability to disrupt and upside. The Eagles will likely not match it. I just don’t see it. I don’t mind if I’m wrong, because he’s an awesome player.

I expect this to be a sad goodbye, and I hope he excels wherever he ends up.

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Blogging the Boys

Donovan Ezeiruaku undergoes hip surgery, possibly out until training camp​

Donovan Ezeiruaku is five weeks removed from hip surgery that will prevent him from being a full participant in the offseason program, per source. The expectation is he will be ready for training camp.

— Todd Archer (@toddarcher) March 2, 2026

Ezeiruaku is entering his second season with the Cowboys after being selected in the second round in 2025. As a rookie, Ezeiruaku played as an edge rusher under former defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus. He played in all 17 games with nine starts and logged 40 tackles (nine tackles for loss), two sacks, and 12 quarterback hits. Ezeiruaku’s 604 snaps were good for 55% of the Cowboys defensive snaps, and he also registered 85 snaps on special teams.

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NFL Draft / Combine​

REPORT: Caleb Downs was flagged this week with a partially torn meniscus. There is also concern about a possible “degenerative ACL.” (per @fakecorykinnan)

It feels similar to the Will Johnson situation last year. We’ll see how it plays out. pic.twitter.com/G7dOd53j2k

— SCOUTD (@scoutdnfl) March 3, 2026

No major outlets (ESPN, NFL Network, etc.) or the team have confirmed this yet. It's a rumor from draft insider Cory Kinnan (fakecorykinnan) via Combine hearsay, echoed by a few accounts today. Downs reportedly didn't work out, which fits the narrative, but no scans or statements…

— Grok (@grok) March 3, 2026

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aBit o’Twitter​

We've finalized all additions and changes to our 2026 coaching staff

https://t.co/raEaC20zwy pic.twitter.com/slacf9EmHH

— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) March 2, 2026

The Commanders and veteran OL Nick Allegretti have agreed to a new two-year deal, per source.

A three-time Super Bowl winner with the Chiefs, Allegretti started the last two games for Washington at center last season in place of injured Tyler Biadasz, who is being released.

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 2, 2026

Everything AP and DQ have mentioned about wanting in an EDGE, Bain is literally the opposite

— Mark Tyler (Hogs Haven) (@Tiller56) March 2, 2026

Kevin believes it is in the Commanders' plans to bring Jacob Martin back next year. pic.twitter.com/sYdeWcaDMW

— The Team 980 (@team980) March 2, 2026

maybe lattimore will sign with a team that understands his ability as a press cornerback instead making him flounder in off half the time https://t.co/PvgH7AsUqk

— Doug Farrar ✍ (@NFL_DougFarrar) March 2, 2026

#Commanders intel per @BenStandig

• Washington is looking at free agent DEs, possible targets: Boye Mafe, Odafe Oweh, Arnold Ebiketie.

• Team wants to keep Jacob Martin

• Possible that they re-sign CB Jonathan Jones, will look at CBs however.

• Von Miller’s preferred…

— brandon (@JayDanielsMVP) March 2, 2026

NFL news so far today:

• Lions trade RB David Montgomery and a 7th to the Texans for C Juice Scruggs and a 4th.

• Texans trade OT Tytus Howard to the Browns for a 5th.

• Chiefs will cut OT Jawaan Taylor.

• Bengals re-sign G Dalton Risner to 1-year deal.

Turn on…

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) March 2, 2026

Franchise tag window closes this afternoon at 4pm.

Will the Jets tag Hall? Will Indy tag either Jones or Pierce?

— Mark Tyler (Hogs Haven) (@Tiller56) March 3, 2026

Updated compensation :

Texans get: RB David Montgomery.

Lions get: fourth-round pick, OL Juice Scruggs, and a 7th-round pick. https://t.co/fzCWeZMQ0a

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 2, 2026

Has all sorts of links to Washington. Assistant GM Lance Newmark was with Detroit when they drafted him. New OC David Blough was his teammate in 2023. New TE coach Ben Steele was the assistant OL coach in Denver with Glasgow in 2022 https://t.co/cIYciDqBi1

— Mark Bullock (@MarkBullockNFL) March 2, 2026

Not advocating for or against it, simply noting he has a bunch of connections here. That typically means something in the NFL

— Mark Bullock (@MarkBullockNFL) March 2, 2026

#Chargers legend Khalil Mack, one of the top edges available, will play in 2026, sources say. At the age of 35, coming off a strong season, Mack is a priority for LA.

Instead of retirement, Mack is back exploring all options and will be a big-time target in free agency. pic.twitter.com/VnPRbElhEa

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 2, 2026

WR Deebo Samuel was asked who the best QB he’s played with:@19problemz: “I played with two really really good quarterbacks. Really really good ones. Purdy and Jay D.”

He showed love to #49ers QB Brock Purdy & #Commanders QB Jayden Daniels. pic.twitter.com/WZ783X9L78

— 49ers & NFL News 24/7 (@49ersSportsTalk) March 2, 2026

Von Miller reportedly spent part of this week at the NFL combine learning about becoming a future GM

(via @ZacStevensDNVR) pic.twitter.com/vDHudG1VEx

— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) February 28, 2026

More @KDTrey5 on:

-Commanders/Mystics/Trinity Rodman

"I don't want to put my GM hat on, I trust Adam"

-Support from DMV: "I'm born, raised, made in this area…to be here in my 19th season & have so much love & support, I truly, truly appreciate it"@JPFinlayNBCS @MlinaresDC pic.twitter.com/MPKBOWDIN7

— NBC4 Sports (@NBC4Sports) March 2, 2026

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Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/daily-slo...e-interested-in-a-reunion-with-wr-dyami-brown

 

[Washington Commanders]

Daily Slop: 4 Mar 26 – Grant Paulsen: “I don’t want [the Commanders] to win a bidding war for [LG] Chris Paul”

ASHBURN, VA - JUNE 16: Chris Paul #75 of the Washington Commanders looks on during the organized team activity at INOVA Sports Performance Center on June 16, 2022 in Ashburn, Virginia. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Commanders links​

Articles​

Bullock’s Film Room (subscription)

Commanders Free Agent Fits: Interior Defensive Line​

Good Value: Sebastian Joseph-Day, Titans, 30

Joseph-Day is defensive lineman with a link to the Commanders coaching staff. New defensive line coach Eric Henderson coached Joseph-Day for three years with the Rams from 2019-2021. Joseph-Day is an interesting profile as he’s so versatile. He’s listed at 6-foot-4, 310 pounds and can play up and down the line, including on the edge.

Why is it important he can play on the edge? In the projected switch to the 3-4, Jones will have those defensive ends typically lined up in 4i techniques, which is the inside shoulder of the offensive tackle. But when he doesn’t want to blitz, or if he wants to shift the front, that defender will then need to adapt and shift to the edge, working outside of the tackle, as we saw on this play. I expect this is something that Daron Payne, Javon Kinlaw and Johnny Newton will all get looks at doing, but Joseph-Day is very comfortable doing that already, having done it for both the Titans and the Rams under Henderson.

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Riggo’s Rag

Odafe Oweh should be available for the Commanders in free agency if they want him​

The New York Jets gave themselves some breathing space with running back Breece Hall. Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones got the transition tag. The Dallas Cowboys tagged wide receiver George Pickens, and the Atlanta Falcons did the same with stud tight end Kyle Pitts Sr.

But it was those who didn’t get tagged who would pique the Commanders’ interest.

All-Pro defensive end Trey Hendrickson was one of them, and he promptly said goodbye to the Cincinnati Bengals on social media. That could be tempting, but there is another who offers a better long-term promise: someone who could finally provide Jones and head coach Dan Quinn with the dynamism they are looking for.

Despite the Los Angeles Chargers having enough salary cap space, they decided not to franchise-tag Odafe Oweh. This was mildly surprising, especially considering they traded for the player in-season after striking a deal with the Baltimore Ravens. But they could work out a long-term commitment if another club doesn’t get in there first.

That’s where the Commanders come in.

They could offer Oweh a cornerstone role on Jones’ defense. They also have enough cash to make the player an offer he cannot refuse. And even though Washington struggled to reach expectations last season, this remains an ambitious project and an attractive destination.

The Commanders are not the only ones who could target Oweh to take their defensive front up a notch. A bidding war is only going to drive up the price, so there is a good chance he could get $20 million or more on his next deal.

Asking Oweh to be a focal point rather than a rotational option — he played 50 percent of defensive snaps over 12 games for the Chargers — is a lot. But the Commanders did the same with Dorance Armstrong Jr., who was in the midst of a breakout campaign before a knee injury brought an abrupt halt to his momentum.

Oweh recently turned 27. His prime is just beginning, so the Commanders may see this as a more viable option than Hendrickson, who has the most accomplished production but is a little older. And if Jones is planning on switching the Commanders to a 3-4 base scheme, the Penn State product has the athleticism needed to flourish.

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Commanders Roundtable

Four free agent or college cornerbacks Washington Commanders could target in 2026​

Jamel Dean, Tampa Bay

For the first time in his career, Dean is set to hit free agency.

He’s coming off a strong 2025 season where he graded as PFF’s third-best cornerback across the league, registering a career-high three interceptions to pair with nine pass deflections. While the Commanders new defensive scheme under Daronte Jones may not be as complex as Vikings coordinator Brian Flores, Dean did well in Todd Bowles’ complex defensive scheme to provide credence of the fit in Washington.

Lowest passer rating allowed among DB this season including playoffs, per @NextGenStats (minimum 40 targets):

1. Jamel Dean – 41.3 (TB)
2. Calen Bullock – 46.0 (HOU)
3. Quinyon Mitchell – 57.4 (PHI)
4. Derek Stingley Jr. – 57.8 (HOU)
5. Jalen Pitre – 60.7 (HOU)@HoustonTexans |…

— NFL Researcher (@NFL_Researcher) January 14, 2026

Dean allowed completions on just 49.2% of his targets while allowing a 63.1 passer rating when targeted. Dean has also battled injuries during his career as he has yet to play a full season in seven years in the NFL, but after agreeing to a restructured contract and less money ahead of 2025, he could get paid in 2026. ESPN ranks Dean as the 50th-best player available in free agency as Spotrac projects a three year, $37.4 million contract.

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Commanders.com

2026 free agency preview | OL and TEs​

The opinions expressed in this article do not reflect those of the team.

Offensive line

Cade Mays, Carolina Panthers

• There’s a noticeable gap between Linderbaum and the next available center, and Mays seems to be in that second group. The 2022 sixth-round pick has carved out a nice career for himself, though, with 27 starts in 52 games. He emerged as a more consistent starter last season and allowed just 11 pressures with zero sacks.

Zion Johnson, Los Angeles Chargers

• Johnson has played exclusively at left guard for the past three seasons, and the move seems to have done him some good. While he still has work to do as both a pass- and run-blocker, he did have a career-high efficiency rating of 97.7 last season with a career-low in pressures allowed.

Tight ends

Charlie Kolar, Baltimore Ravens

• Although Kolar has caught 73.2% of his targets, he’s not considered a premier pass-catching tight end. He’s known more for his abilities as a run-blocker, and he’s played an important role in establishing the Ravens’ ground attack. It’s hard to imagine the Ravens losing both Kolar and Likely in the same offseason, but it seems like they’re at least willing to let them test the market.

Dallas Goedert, Philadelphia Eagles

• If the 2025 season was Goedert’s last in Philadelphia, it was certainly a memorable way to leave. He scored a career-high 11 touchdowns — more than he did in the last three seasons combined — and broke the record for the most touchdowns by a tight end in franchise history. He’s one of the best tight ends to ever play for the Eagles, so it would be difficult to imagine him leaving, but hey, Zach Ertz did it.

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Heavy.com

Commanders suddenly become top landing spot for Jonthan Greenard​

In terms of draft compensation, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN reported that the Vikings would be seeking a Day two pick in exchange for Greenard. But given the Vikings’ cap issues, it wouldn’t be surprising if they end up accepting a day three selection.

Greenard had 12 sacks in 24. Down year in 25, but knows Daronte Jones well and has versatility. No guaranteed $$ so "working on trade" prob means likely to be cut https://t.co/mrvxI5GDOP

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) March 3, 2026

Adding Greenard would provide the team flexibility with the seventh overall pick.

The secondary is one area the Commanders could address instead. They just released cornerback Marshon Lattimore after they posted the third-worst coverage grade as a team in 2025, according to PFF. In this case, LSU defensive back Mansoor Delane could be the optimal choice for them. The Commanders could also be looking for a new weapon for Jayden Daniels, and receivers like Ohio State’s Carnell Tate or Arizona State’s Jordan Tyson are popular names who could fit.

While Greenard perhaps doesn’t offer the long-term upside of a young-draft prospect, he is still an effective player who could bring a steady edge presence for a couple of seasons.

After posting 24.5 total sacks across the 2023 and 2024 seasons, Greenard’s three-sack 2025 campaign looks disappointing. However, he did miss five games, and despite that, he still tied for the Vikings’ lead in pressures with 24 and ranked 17th league-wide in quarterback hurries. He was 31st in total pressures, which suggests that he wasn’t inefficient as a pass-rusher last year; he just didn’t collect the sack stat. Vikings fans reportedly joked all year that he was the king of “almost sacks.”

While not the best nickname to have, it does suggest that Greenard hasn’t lost a step as a player and was perhaps more unlucky than anything. Then you add in the fact that he wasn’t fully healthy. Greenard was also battling a shoulder injury that ultimately ended his season earlier. Combining all these factors makes it clear that 2025 may have more of an outlier than anything.

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NFL.com

Von Miller not planning to retire: ‘They’re still falling for the same tricks’​

Joining The Rich Eisen Show, Miller said he’s still got gas left in the tank for a 15th season.

“I’m definitely not at the beginning, but they’re still falling for the same tricks,” Miller said when asked if he was nearing the end. “I can’t leave. They’re still falling for this stuff. I gotta roll the dice again. I had nine sacks last year, and I only played 35, 37 percent, so they’re still falling for it. They’re still falling for the same tricks I’ve been doing my whole career. I’m going to keep rolling the dice until they figure it out.”

Far from his perennial All-Pro days, the soon-to-be 37-year-old proved to be a valuable piece in Washington last season, leading the Commanders with nine sacks and earning 15 QB hits, 26 tackles and six tackles for loss in 17 games – his first time playing a full slate since 2018.

Last offseason, Miller chose the Commander over the Seahawks, a decision he said he’d do “10 times out of 10.” He noted that the presence of Jayden Daniels and Washington’s previous run to the NFC Championship in 2024 was the reason he chose Washington over the eventual Super Bowl champs. It’s hard to fault Miller for the choice at the time, but, in his mind, it underscores the need to make the right decision this time around.

“I’m a loyal guy. I would love to stay with the Washington Commanders,” he said. “I fell in love with my teammates there. I love the way they run the organization. (General manager) Adam Peters is great. Coach (Dan) Quinn is great. I would love to be a Washington Commander. If something were to happen and I’m not a Washington Commander, then I would love to go to the Denver Broncos. I didn’t get that chance — I got traded whenever I was there — I didn’t get that chance to have closure. I didn’t get to walk into the stadium and be like, ‘OK, this is my last game’ or ‘I’m gonna do this with the fans.’ I didn’t get that closure. So, I would love to have closure with the Denver Broncos. And if, hey, the Commanders don’t want me, the Broncos don’t want me, there’s a team out there that’s gonna pick me up that would love to have my tricks on their roster. I just play it by ear. This is my second time doing it. I kind of know what to expect. Just got to make the best out of whatever decision I get.”

Miller isn’t likely to be among the first wave of free agency, and could be a player who waits until after the draft to peg the best situation moving forward.

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Podcasts & videos​

Second Thoughts Going into Free Agency | John Keim Report​

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NFC East links​

Pro Football Talk

Report: Giants to release LB Bobby Okereke​

The Giants have informed linebacker Bobby Okereke that they are releasing him at the start of the league year on March 11, according to Jordan Schultz of The Schultz Report.

Okereke was entering the final year of a four-year, $40 million contract, and his release will save them $9 million this season.

He started all 17 games in 2025, totaling 143 tackles, a sack, two interceptions and six passes defensed.

In his three seasons with the Giants, Okereke recorded 385 tackles, 5.5 sacks, four interceptions, seven forced fumbles and 19 pass breakups.

Okereke, who turns 30 on July 29, played four seasons in Indianapolis after the Colts made him a third-round pick in 2019.

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With less than a week to the start of the negotiating window, #Eagles TE Dallas Goedert is positioned to hit free agency for the first time in his career. Sources say the team has expressed interested in re-signing him and the sides will continue talking in the coming days.… pic.twitter.com/mpMC2ZEhIf

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 3, 2026

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Franchise Tag updates​

The Athletic (paywall)

NFL franchise tag winners and losers: Cowboys’ decision promises offseason drama ahead​

Cowboys drama enthusiasts

Remember last offseason when the Cowboys had a long-term contract extension looming with a key player in Micah Parsons, and Jerry Jones said at the height of the negotiation period that he didn’t even know the name of Parsons’ agent? The agent’s name was David Mulugheta and he’s one of the most well-respected agents throughout the NFL. He also happens to be the agent for Pickens, who the Cowboys just franchise tagged, even though the wide receiver is looking for a long-term contract.

Pickens has been in Dallas for less than a year, and that’s included a smooth fit in the offense with fellow high-priced stars Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb. It also had brief periods of question marks on the field, and a one-series benching last season for missing curfew when the team played in Las Vegas against the Raiders. Both sides may be sound in their reasoning for their emotions about the franchise tag, which only adds to the theatrics. And nobody will love it more than Jones himself.

Losers​

Indianapolis Colts

The Colts aren’t major losers because they did get Jones on the transition tag, which is about $5 million less than what the non-exclusive tag would have been. But they are in a dicey situation, as they chose to go all in on a quarterback who has a lengthy history of mediocrity after only a small sample size of promise. In doing so, they also exposed one of their promising wide receiver talents, Alec Pierce, to the open market.

Cincinnati Bengals

It feels like the Trey Hendrickson saga has gone on for centuries in Cincinnati. It’s been no secret that Hendrickson has been unhappy with his contract situation and the Bengals chose to deal with that last season by extending him for just one more year. The 2025 season ended up being a lost one for the Bengals. After injuries cut Hendrickson’s 2025 season short and limited his trade possibilities during the season, the Bengals will just let him walk instead of trying to get back a haul when his value was high.

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ESPN

Colts place rarely used transition tag on QB Daniel Jones; no tag on WR Alec Pierce​

The Indianapolis Colts have taken the first step in ensuring that impending free agent quarterback Daniel Jones sticks around, placing the seldom-used transition tag on the veteran.

The tag guarantees the Colts the right of first refusal for Jones, preserving the right to match any competing offer sheet he might sign with an interested club. The news comes ahead of Tuesday’s deadline to assess franchise or transition tags on players who are scheduled to hit free agency next week.

No quarterback has been tagged with the transition tag since ESPN Research began tracking such moves in 2000. Only 20 players have been given the transition tag since then (though several were rescinded), with safety Kyle Dugger in 2024 being the most recent.

If Jones does not sign a competing offer sheet, he would earn a one-year guaranteed salary of $37.833 million.

By transition tagging Daniel Jones, the Colts are now about $4.7M over the cap.

They have about $48.5M in simple restructure potential, but only about half of that is in fully guaranteed salary.

I'll be curious if they restructure themselves a lot of cap padding, just in case.

— Nick Korte (@nickkorte) March 3, 2026

[A] hairline fibula fracture in his left leg negatively impacted [Jones’] performance [after Week 10 of the ‘25 season], with Jones sustaining a season-ending ruptured Achilles in his right leg in Week 14.

That injury has perhaps complicated negotiations with Jones, who has several months of rehabilitation remaining before he is cleared to return to the field.

Meanwhile, the decision to tag Jones has a direct impact on [WR Alec] Pierce, who now is on pace to reach unrestricted free agency as arguably the top available wide receiver if he is not re-signed before March 11. Pierce’s representatives and those of other impending free agents can begin negotiating with other clubs Monday.

The NFL’s leader in yards per catch in each of the past two seasons, Pierce eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards for the first time in 2025 despite ranking fourth among Colts players in targets.

Biggest winner of today is Colts WR Alec Pierce. Few notables at that position get to free agency. Its the big benefit for positional players when a QB actually forces a franchise/transition tag

— Jason_OTC (@Jason_OTC) March 3, 2026

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Players not tagged today who will be allowed to become free agents next week include:

Seahawks RB Kenneth Walker
Colts WR Alec Pierce
Chargers DE Odafe Oweh
Jaguars RB Travis Etienne
Ravens C Tyler Linderbaum
Bengals DE Trey Hendrickson pic.twitter.com/EnEZwBp9hb

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 3, 2026

Trey Hendrickson:

– 31 years old
– Appeared in only 7 games last season
– Recorded 4 Sacks and 16 tackles
– Hip/Pelvic Injury in October
– Core Muscle Surgery in December
– Injured-Reserve

The #Commanders have the money.

Do we expect a bounce back season? https://t.co/9qugHOiTQ3

— George Carmi (@Gcarmi21) March 3, 2026

The Ravens selected Tyler Linderbaum in Round 1 of the 2022 NFL Draft and he was clearly the BPA.

But because of position value and weird tag designations, he’ll now become an UFA and will (likely leave) next week.

They hit on the player. But did they hit on the pick?

— Marcus Mosher (@Marcus_Mosher) March 3, 2026

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NFL league links​

Articles​

ESPN

Sources: Cardinals tell Kyler Murray he’ll be released next week​

After months of speculation about Murray’s future with the team, Arizona informed the 2019 No. 1 draft pick that it plans to release him next Wednesday, when the new league year begins, barring a trade, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Monday.

Murray was already guaranteed $36.8 million for 2026 and would have been guaranteed another $19.5 million for 2027 if he was still on the roster March 16, which is the fifth day of the 2026 league year.

Murray’s seven seasons in Arizona were full of highlights, but his tenure ended with only one playoff appearance, a wild-card loss to the Los Angeles Rams in 2021.

Murray was a two-time Pro Bowler.

After playing in all 16 games in 2019 and 2020, Murray sat out three in 2021 and six in 2022 after tearing his right ACL that December. He returned for the last eight games of 2023, played every game in 2024 and then played in only the first five games last season before suffering a right foot injury that caused him to sit out the rest of the season.

Murray has thrown for 121 touchdowns and 60 interceptions in seven seasons. He also has 32 rushing touchdowns.

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Front Office Sports

The NFL is about to get a lot more money for its domestic media rights; new analysis details how much the league may still be underpriced​

Guggenheim pointed to the NBA, which elevated its cost-per-viewer-hour basis to $3.55 in its new set of domestic media rights with Amazon, ESPN, and NBC—collectively worth $77 billion over 11 years. Comparatively, NFL games in 2025 commanded a cost per viewer hour of just $1.20 in its current deals, with the disparity from the NBA only growing starker as the NFL posted its best regular-season viewership since 1989.

“The higher cost of the NBA rights on a per-viewer-hour basis is informative but not definitive in the context of increased value potential for NFL rights,” Guggenheim said. “Either the NBA partners overpaid significantly relative to performance or the NFL should drive significantly more long-term value to partners than is implied at current rates.”

That, along with the NFL’s continued status as by far the most-watched programming in U.S. television, will drive “significant cost increases” in the next set of rights deals, Guggenheim said.

The NFL has a contractual opt-out with most of its rights holders after the 2029 season, but given the size and complexity of the contracts, talks are expected to begin in earnest this year. Before Super Bowl LX last month, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said the league will be looking to maximize both reach and revenue in new pacts.

“What we focus on is ‘How do we reach the broadest number of people, on every broadcast? How do we make an event out of that?’” Goodell said in response to a Front Office Sports question. “We select our partners in part for that reason. Economics are obviously part of that, the value that’s created. But at the end of the day, we want partners who are going to broaden our audience.”

“The NFL is not looking to kill television,” Guggenheim said. “The league is looking to maximize value and grow global popularity, while maintaining a strong connection with its existing fan base by providing consumer choice. … A strong renewal with longstanding Sunday afternoon partners would set a foundation for league revenue growth well into the next decade and provide an early look at the incremental value potential.”

That 2.8 Billion dollar buyout that Netflix gets for *not* buying Warner Bros is conveniently the volume of cash they would need to pay for distribution rights for an entire 16-game international slate of NFL games. https://t.co/cHGv3ZlvZy

— Brett Kollmann (@BrettKollmann) March 4, 2026

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Discussion topics​

The Athletic (paywall)

QB predictions for every NFL team​

[There are] eight teams Open for Business: Browns, Cardinals, Colts, Dolphins, Jets, Raiders, Steelers and Vikings.

The predictions​

Browns: Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson, Dillon Gabriel and Justin Fields

Cardinals: Malik Willis and Jacoby Brissett

Colts: Daniel Jones and Tyrod Taylor

Dolphins: Mac Jones

Falcons: Michael Penix Jr. and Tua Tagovailoa

Jets: Kyler Murray, Andy Dalton and Drew Allar

Raiders: Fernando Mendoza and Geno Smith

Steelers: Aaron Rodgers and Garrett Nussmeier

Vikings: JJ McCarthy, Joe Flacco and Anthony Richardson

Someone among the top candidates has to be the odd man out, and in this exercise that was Cousins. If he doesn’t land in Minnesota, I’m not really sure where the best path to a starting job would be for him unless the Dolphins like him as a stopgap. Cleveland doesn’t make sense, and the Jets aren’t interested. Maybe he waits it out to see when some team’s quarterback gets injured and desperation sets in.

As for Ty Simpson, the consensus No. 2 quarterback in this class: I’m predicting that he lands with the Rams as Matthew Stafford’s eventual replacement.

The Chiefs might need a backup to start for them early in the season. My early bet would be Marcus Mariota or Flacco, though maybe Cousins is an option here.

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aBit o’Twitter​

The Washington Commanders are ONE great offseason away from being in the Super Bowl@heykayadams pic.twitter.com/A0m9Z7mFxb

— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) March 3, 2026

NFL franchise player tags:
Kyle Pitts, Falcons ($15.045 million)
George Pickens, Cowboys ($27.298 million)
Breece Hall, Jets ($14.293 million)

NFL transition player tag:
Daniel Jones, Colts ($37.833 million)

— MarkMaske (@MarkMaske) March 3, 2026

LIVE: G/T Andrew Wylie speaks to the media after re-signing https://t.co/E0KtyNOi2N

— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) March 3, 2026

Asked about why he chose to sign with the Commanders instead of pursuing free agency, Andrew Wylie said, "The culture is in place, you know, DQ and AP have this place going, it's on lock."

and on how the upcoming changes will impact the OL, "…when you huddle up, you get the…

— David Harrison (@DHarrison82) March 3, 2026

Checking in on cap situations around the NFC with a week until free agency opens

H/T @spotrac pic.twitter.com/7gSftD8Zpa

— The 33rd Team (@The33rdTeamFB) March 3, 2026

The latest 2026 NFL Unrestricted Free Agency Cheat Sheet: pic.twitter.com/4l7nafxsBv

— Mike Clay (@MikeClayNFL) March 3, 2026

Brand new Take Command with @LoganPaulsenNFL and I just dropped.

Lattimore is out
Allegretti extension
Chris Paul’s future
Tunsil extension convo
Which draft prospects fall to 7

Check it out. pic.twitter.com/VgcXi1igx3

— Grant Paulsen (@granthpaulsen) March 4, 2026

"Drew Dalman was hauling all the protections… and it was really key in Caleb Williams' development. … This is a massive, massive loss."

—@ChaseDaniel on what Dalman's retirement means for Caleb Williams pic.twitter.com/UUtHqiOMtq

— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) March 3, 2026

Stephen Ross is reportedly selling one percent of the Dolphins at a record valuation of $12.5 billion. That will potentially drive up the final price tag for the Seahawks. https://t.co/FHiRYEso5z

— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) March 3, 2026

For those scoring at home, Tyler Biadasz's release officially hit the transaction wire today. pic.twitter.com/3t5ggHCUHn

— Ben Standig (@BenStandig) March 3, 2026

---

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/daily-slo...anders-to-win-a-bidding-war-for-lg-chris-paul

 

[Washington Commanders]

Washington Commanders re-sign two defensive linemen

LANDOVER, MD - SEPTEMBER 07: Deatrich Wise Jr. #91 of the Washington Commanders lines up before the snap during an NFL football game against the New York Giants at Northwest Stadium on September 7, 2025 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Free agency starts next Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET, and the Washington Commanders have been working to sign several pending free agents. They have already inked Tress Way, Andrew Wylie, and Nick Allegretti to new deals, and now they’ve reportedly signed two defensive linemen. Defensive tackle Shy Tuttle was the first name reported. He was claimed off waivers from the Tennessee Titans before the Commanders played the Cowboys on Christmas Day last season. Tuttle appeared in two games and played 25 snaps.

Def Interceptions	Fumbles	Tackles
Season	Age	Team	Lg	Pos	G	GS	Int	Yds	IntTD	Lng	PD	FF	Fmb	FR	Yds	FRTD	Sk	Comb	Solo	Ast	TFL	QBHits	Sfty	AV	Awards
2019	24	NOR	NFL	DT	16	1	1	19	0	19	4	0	0	0	0	0	2.0	18	8	10	3	3	0	2
2020	25	NOR	NFL	DT	13	3	0	0	0	0	2	0	0	0	0	0	0.0	28	17	11	2	1	0	2
2021	26	NOR	NFL	LDT	17	15	0	0	0	0	3	1	0	1	0	0	0.0	48	17	31	3	1	0	8
2022	27	NOR	NFL	LDT	17	14	0	0	0	0	5	0	0	0	0	0	2.0	49	26	23	1	3	0	7
2023	28	CAR	NFL	DT	17	17	0	0	0	0	5	0	0	0	0	0	0.5	43	19	24	1	1	0	7
2024	29	CAR	NFL	NT	15	15	0	0	0	0	3	1	0	2	0	0	0.0	46	22	24	0	1	0	5
2025	30	2TM	NFL	DT	12	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0.0	15	7	8	1	0	0	1
2025	30	TEN	NFL	DT	10	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0.0	11	6	5	1	0	0	1
2025	30	WAS	NFL	DT	2	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0.0	4	1	3	0	0	0	0
7 Yrs	107	66	1	19	0	19	22	2	0	3	0	0	4.5	247	116	131	11	10	0	32
17 Game Avg	17	10	0	3	0	19	3	0	0	0	0	0	0.7	39	18	21	2	2	0	5
NOR (4 Yrs)	63	33	1	19	0	19	14	1	0	1	0	0	4.0	143	68	75	9	8	0	19
CAR (2 Yrs)	32	32	0	0	0	0	8	1	0	2	0	0	0.5	89	41	48	1	2	0	12
TEN (1 Yr)	10	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0.0	11	6	5	1	0	0	1
WAS (1 Yr)	2	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0.0	4	1	3	0	0	0	0

Defense & Fumbles Table

Provided by Pro-Football-Reference.com: View Original Table
Generated 3/4/2026.

Defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. was signed to a 1-year, $5 million deal last offseason, but only played in the first two games. He suffered a quad injury in Week 2, and was placed on injured reserve. The 31-year old veteran gets another year in Washington, and will be working with new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones.

The Commanders also agreed to a one-year extension with DE Deatrich Wise, per source. https://t.co/77uJD6wPdd

— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) March 4, 2026

Deatrich Wise says he feels great, can't wait to get back on the field for Washington – "I'm ready to go" pic.twitter.com/8qXTFvD9BB

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) March 5, 2026

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/washingto...gton-commanders-re-sign-two-defensive-linemen

 

[Washington Commanders]

2026 NFL Mock Draft Roundup: A new favorite for the Commanders after the Combine

Jan 8, 2026; Glendale, AZ, USA; Miami Hurricanes defensive lineman Rueben Bain Jr. (4) against the Mississippi Rebels during the 2026 Fiesta Bowl and semifinal game of the College Football Playoff at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The NFL Scouting Combine is in the rearview, and we’re still dealing with some of the headlines, both real and fake. Reuben Bain’s arm length and a disputed claim about Caleb Downs’ medicals. We also got interviews, measurements, and testing numbers from a lot of prospects, while some chose to wait for their pro days at their home facilities.

This roundup has 61 mock drafts and 28 of them feature EDGE rushers. Texas’s David Bailey had been the most popular choice for the Commanders for weeks until the Combine, and now he’s going as high as No. 3 overall. He is still a very popular pick for Washington, but if he’s not there, the majority of this week’s mocks want to see Rueben Bain and his short arms succeed in Daronte Jones’ new defense. Bain has been a polarizing prospect with people saying he reminds them of Terrell Suggs. Washington’s major need at pass rusher makes Bain an easy choice here.

Sonny Styles made himself a lot of money at the Combine with a historic showing. He leaps over Caleb Downs and pulls the LB position into the spotlight for Washington. Styles has a lot of supporters who say he will take over the defense, and he’s even called the next Bobby Wagner.

Caleb Downs is still a popular choice at No. 7 overall. He goes to the Commanders in the first round in 8 different mock drafts, and continues to be a solid option whose value will be questioned there. LSU’s Mansoor Delane continues to be the top CB option, and gets sent to Washington a few times to make up for the Marshon Lattimore loss.

The Washington Commanders continue to build their team around QB Jayden Daniels, and more and more people want to see a premiere running back in the backfield with him. Jeremiyah Love is a versatile back who would be a fantastic addition to any offense. Will Adam Peters spend big on defense in free agency, and then take the best RB in the draft?

It’s early in the draft process so we haven’t had a lot of trade scenarios, but we’ve got two in this week’s roundup. The first trade has Washington falling in love with Ohio State LB Sonny Styles and trading all the way up to the third overall pick to take him. They give up three picks next year for one in return in a deja vu scenario for going into this year’s draft short on picks. The trade down scenario would make a lot of people happy, trading down with the Dolphins to #11 and still ending up with David Bailey.

Position selections:

EDGE – 28

S – 8

CB – 3

LB – 13

RB – 7

WR – 1

OT – 1

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

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Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami(15)​

NFL.com (Zierlein)​

This pick would fade the historical norm for edge defenders with shorter arms, but Bain can rush the passer and is a block destructor against the run. Just a damn-good football player.

NFL.com (Davis)​

The Commanders need a pass rusher who can close. Bain can do the job, and with force.

The Athletic (Sando)​

Two of the four execs had Tate landing here, but he’s already off the board in this exercise. Bain and inside linebacker Sonny Styles were the other projected picks.

“I could see Bain going as high as 2 to the Jets,” one exec said. “He reminds me of Terrell Suggs, someone who can bring that play style to your defense — a heavy-handed, old-school player who is the most physical of the edge guys.”

Opinions on Styles were mixed.

“Styles is an inside ‘backer, a Will, not a rusher like Reese,” one said.

Another countered that Styles projects as a pass rusher at 6-foot-4 and 244 pounds.

“(Commanders coach Dan) Quinn has a history of taking rushers,” another exec said. “He coached Dante Fowler at Florida and signed him in Atlanta. He drafted Vic Beasley and Takk McKinley in the first round (also with the Falcons). I could see him taking a rusher.”

Pro Football Focus (Sikkema)​

Bain measured in with short arms (sub-31 inches), but we already knew that would happen. That doesn’t change his tape or the fact that he is one of the top three-down defensive linemen in the class. He would immediately be the biggest difference maker on the Commanders’ defensive line after racking up the most pressures (83) in college football this past season.

CBS Sports (Fornelli)​

Arm length is the conversation du jour in draft circles (thanks, Will Campbell), and I understand why teams will be concerned about Rueben Bain Jr’s. Still, I don’t care. Watch him play football. Maybe he won’t get 20 sacks in a season, but he’s going to make your defense better in all facets.

NBC Sports Philadelphia (Frank)​

The Commanders haven’t had a top outside pass rusher since before they were called the Commanders. Their last pass rusher with 12 sacks in a season was one-time Eagle Ryan Kerrigan back in 2017 and 2018. Bain spells his first name wrong, but other than that he’s a tremendous prospect who brings three years of experience and big-time production – 33 ½ tackles for loss, 20 ½ sacks and four forced fumbles over the last three seasons in Coral Gables. The Commanders haven’t drafted a defensive lineman in the first round since Chase Young back in 2020 and after a promising start that didn’t go well. Bain could be exactly what the Commanders are looking for after ranking last in the NFL last year in yards allowed and 31st in passing yards allowed per play.

Athlon Sports (Easterling)​

This roster simply needs more playmakers on both sides of the ball, so this pick is about pure value. Bain was as dominant as any defender in college football last year, and regardless of concerns about his arm length, he’s a complete player with a three-down skill set.

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.

Round 5: Michael Taaffe, S, Texas

Washington adds some safety depth and competition.

Bleacher Report (Sobleski)​

Rueben Bain Jr. is a perfect example of, “Watch the tape.”

At Miami last season, he was easily one of the top two or three players in all of college football. He has explosive power and quickness to work up and down the line of scrimmage. His play is everything a team wants in a high first-round selection.

However, no one can deny the realities of a prospect who doesn’t hit certain measurement thresholds. These things matter to NFL organizations. In Bain’s case, his arms measured under 31 inches.

“The official measurements from the combine confirmed that Bain has very short arms and would be a size outlier if he ends up being a quality pass-rusher in the pros,” Holder said. “That factor caused the former Hurricane to slide a tad in this projection, but the Commanders are the beneficiaries of the situation.

“Washington’s defense needs pass-rush help, which Bain can provide, along with being a physical edge-setter in the run game.”

Round 3: Elijah Sarratt, WR, Indiana

Saturday Blitz (Rome)​

Dan Quinn enters 2026 with a lot to prove after an abysmal season for the Commanders. The Commanders defense needs to add pass rushers as Von Miller hits free agency after leading the team in sacks. Rueben Bain Jr has concerns over arm length, but he could instantly become the team’s best pass rusher.

Round 3: Max Klare, TE, Ohio State

Zach Ertz’s torn ACL at the end of the season creates a need for the Commanders at tight end. Max Klare was expected to have a bigger role at Ohio State, but he has natural receiving gifts with upside as a blocker, and he can develop with Jayden Daniels.

Essentially Sports (Hubbard)​

There’s talk about teams not caring what Rueben Bain’s arm length is, but the truth is, defensive ends with his arm length don’t succeed in the NFL. I wrote an article diving into other DEs with their arm length to see how they panned out, and pretty much none of them have. It’s a big concern, so I think he’s going to slide, but Washington desperately needs an edge rusher, and he’s still an incredible talent. They just need to find a way to work around his short arms.

Fantasy Sports on SI (Morales-Smith)​

Previously, we had Bain going fourth overall; however, after concerns with his arm length being raised last week at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, we now have him dropping to seventh overall, to a Washington team that needs help with their pass rush.

Sports Illustrated (Macmillan)​

Rueben Bain Jr. measured in with some of the shortest arms we’ve seen at the pass-rusher position. While it may seem silly, teams have dropped players down their boards for dumber reasons than arm length, and, to be fair, not having a long reach is certainly a detriment to a pass-rusher’s game. Still, Bain Jr. has too much talent not be a top 10 pick. I think he falls to No. 7, but the Washington Commanders will be happy to have him.

Draft Wire (Popejoy)​

We love Bain, and he should break the mold in the NFL despite his less-than-ideal arm length. He lives and breathes football and has all the tools an elite edge defender needs.

Fantasy Pros (Blakeway)​

Washington needs defensive stability — 37-year-old Von Miller led the team in sacks. The Commanders need a young, fierce pass-rusher like Rueben Bain Jr.

David Bailey, EDGE, Texas(13)​

The Athletic (Brugler)​

Head coach Dan Quinn and general manager Adam Peters are looking for speed and violence off the edge, and Bailey offers both. He took a jump as a run defender this past season and would improve the Commanders’ pass rush immediately.

Yahoo Sports (McDonald/Tice)​

As tempting as it will be to add an offensive player of some kind here, with tasty options at offensive line, wide receiver, tight end and running back, the Commanders instead add firepower to a defense that has to get faster, younger and just straight up better. Bailey is an explosive pass rusher who is constantly attacking offensive tackles. He will never be a strong run defender, but he has long arms (measured at 33 ¾ inches at the combine) and has improved in that area. Bailey is the exact type of talent injection this defense needs.

Sporting News (Iyer)​

The Commanders should be prepared to jump on Bailey should he fall here after his freakish athletic profile was on display at the Combine. Dan Quinn needs this level of dynamic pass rusher who also has rare dropback coverage skills outside.

The Sporting Tribune (Deutsch)​

Bailey ran a 4.51 at the Combine and remains the best pure pass-rusher in this draft class. The Commanders will have one of the premier pass rushers fall to them.

Bears Talk (Perez)​

Washington needs a real problem off the edge, and Bailey looks like that kind of player. If you’re trying to close the gap in your division, pressure is the fastest way. Bailey could go much higher than this.

A to Z Sports (Forness)​

Is there a team that needs to upgrade at edge rusher more than the Commanders? Maybe one or two teams, but it’s a dire need. Bailey was the most productive edge rusher in college football for the Red Raiders last season, and was a consensus All-American for his efforts. He doesn’t have a ton of bend, but he’s got the juice to get the edge, and the nuance to beat offensive tackles.

Fantasy Points (Whitefield)​

There probably isn’t a better scenario for Washington than getting arguably the best pure pass-rusher in the draft at pick 7. Bailey is a stud with ideal length and athleticism, along with a very developed pass-rush moveset.

Bleacher Nation (Rooney)​

I think Caleb Downs is the best player in the draft still at this point, but if an EDGE with as high a ceiling as David Bailey is sitting there, I think Washington has to take him. However, if their choice is between Bailey or Downs, I don’t think there is a wrong choice.

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 the Commanders’ pash rush was not great last year. Bailey slots in as one of their top threats off the edge as soon as he hits the field.

Draft Countdown (Lamb)​

I expect that Reuben Bain and David Bailey will come off the board in that order. However, if Bain falls, I don’t think Washington would balk at selecting him.

Bears Wire (Pendleton)​

Commanders head coach Dan Quinn loves elite defenders, and while Sonny Styles would’ve been quite the fit, they’ll benefit In having Bailey fall to this pick. The NCAA’s sack leader In the 2025 season, Bailey will be a great fit for Quinn’s defense and help boost the Commanders pass rush.

FF Today (Bales)​

The Commanders need to fix their defense, and Bailey is the perfect option. He isn’t likely going to come in and play every down as a rookie, but he can immediately impact the game. He comes with tremendous pass-rush potential, and Washington is in need of someone who can pressure opposing quarterbacks. He’s the type of player who can become an All-Pro later down the line.

Last Word on Sports (Adams)​

TRADE! The Commanders trade down with the Dolphins(#11) to get more picks

The Commanders trade down with the Dolphins to add more draft capital on day two and they find themselves a gift in David Bailey at No. 11. Bailey is in contention for the No. 2 selection to the Jets, but in this scenario falls to Washington. The Stanford and Texas Tech product has a wicked first step and matched that with great combine explosive numbers. Dorance Armstrong is coming back from a major injury and Von Miller and Jakob Martin are free agents. Bailey had elite production at Texas Tech and would add some much needed pass rush to the Commanders lacking defense.

Arvell Reese, OLB Ohio State​

CBS Sports (Wilson)​

Could Reese fall to No. 7? It seems like a long shot, but if the Bills trade up for a WR, things can get interesting quickly. This is a best-case scenario for the Commanders, who have to upgrade their pass rush.

TWSN​

Here’s where Arvell Reese needs to come off the board as arguably the best player in this class. Reese is extremely polarizing due to his versatility. If the Washington Commanders are as bought into his pass rush upside as I am, this will be the pick made.

Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State(11)​

SB Nation (Schofield)​

Styles was already a first-round prospect when he arrived in Indianapolis. In our post-Super Bowl mock draft, we had him coming off the board at No. 20 to the Dallas Cowboys. But now? No. 5 to the New York Giants certainly feels like a possibility. We have him coming off the board at No. 7 to the Washington Commanders — where he would either get to learn alongside Bobby Wagner if Washington brings him back, or replace him if the veteran leaves in free agency — but now it feels like Styles is a top-ten lock.

Sharp Football Analysis (McCrystal)​

Best Draft Targets for the Commanders with the 7th pick:

• Sonny Styles: Off-ball linebackers don’t get drafted this high, but Styles is a unique prospect. The former safety could be compared to Kam Chancellor or Keanu Neal, two strong safeties who thrived under Dan Quinn. Adam Peters might also be more open to drafting a linebacker early, having seen the value of an elite player at the position when he was in San Francisco with Patrick Willis and NaVorro Bowman.
• Trade Down: Washington might have too many needs to justify using this selection, especially with only two picks in the top 100 selections.
• David Bailey or Rueben Bain: Free agents Jacob Miller and Von Miller lead the team in pressures (76 combined), likely putting Bailey and Bain near the top of the Commanders’ wish list. However, it’s a relatively deep position in this draft class, so Washington should feel no pressure to turn down a trade offer to select one of the top pass rushers.
• Caleb Downs: Both safety starters (Quan Martin and Will Harris) remain under contract, though only for one more year. Downs would be an upgrade and likely the best available player if he’s still on the board.
• Wide Receiver: Ideally, Washington can find a reliable outside receiver to start opposite Terry McLaurin this offseason. Carnell Tate and Jordyn Tyson would both fit the offense well in that role. Though the value might be right on those prospects, it might be seen as a luxury selection given the other holes on the roster.

Who Calls the Shots in Commanders Draft Room?

GM Adam Peters (third year) has final say over the personnel decisions. He previously spent seven years with the 49ers, most recently as John Lynch’s assistant GM. He also previously served as the Broncos’ director of college scouting under John Elway. Head coach Dan Quinn likely has significant input in selecting defensive players, as he’s always had strong preferences on who fits his scheme.

Key Stats & Notes for the Commanders heading into the 2026 NFL Draft:

• Running backs averaged 1.0 yards before contact per carry, ranked 27th.
• Allowed 1.4 yards before contact per attempt to running backs, ranked 25th.
• Allowed 10 or more yards on 11.9% of carries by running backs, ranked 26th.
• Allowed 9.2 yards per attempt when the defense failed to generate pressure, ranked 32nd.

Sharp Football Analysis (Donahue)​

The Commanders were 31st in EPA allowed and 28th in rushing EPA allowed per carry last year, so they could use an upgrade at both linebacker and on the edge. Styles stole the show at the NFL combine with his testing numbers and now has people thinking he will be able to play multiple roles at the next level, which would be perfect for Washington.

FOX Sports (Vacchiano)​

With Bobby Wagner turning 36 and likely headed elsewhere, the Commanders need a replacement in the middle of their defense. Styles, the star of the combine, is the perfect fit. He’s a former safety who is an expert at reading offenses and getting into position. He is strong in coverage and can attack as a pass rusher, with great sideline-to-sideline speed.. He can do it all, which makes him the ideal defender to build around as the Commanders try to fix their broken defense.

The Draft Network (Eisner)​

Sonny Styles is the kind of dynamic player the Commanders desperately need on the second level. He offers a rare combination of energy, versatility, and pass-rush ability. The fact that he’s already excelled as the green dot for Ohio State proves he has the leadership and high football IQ to be an instant starter and the commander of the Washington defense. Styles wowed with his measurables and athleticism at the NFL Combine.

Clutch Points (Crean)​

Another huge combine winner was Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles. The converted safety is a perfect prototypical modern off-ball linebacker with incredible athleticism. He is the LB version of now-Seahawks safety Nick Emmanwori from the 2025 NFL Draft. At 6-foot-5, 244 pounds, Styles ran a 4.46 40-yard dash, which was significantly faster than his 6-foot-2, 192-pound Buckeyes’ teammate, wide receiver Carnell Tate, who ran a 4.53. Dan Quinn will be salivating to put Styles in the middle of his defense and make him his next Bobby Wagner.

Sports Illustrated (Flick)​

Washington has holes to fill on both sides of the ball, and free agency will likely dictate the team’s direction, but Commanders coach Dan Quinn will surely prioritize fixing his defense. Styles, one of the combine’s biggest stars, is a physical specimen at 6′ 5″ and 244 pounds, and his 4.46 40-yard dash and 43 ½-inch vertical underscore his athleticism. Styles, only two years into playing linebacker, took significant strides this past year, and his upside is tantalizing.

NFL Spin Zone (Scataglia)​

Bobby Wagner is a free agent this offseason, and even if the Commanders would have interest in bringing him back, it would be impossible to pass up on Styles, who had himself a day at the NFL Combine, showing off top-tier athleticism and only further reinforcing just how elite of a prospect he is.

A positive and negative of having an average roster is that the Commanders will have a plethora of different paths available to them at pick seven, which even could include trading down, but a negative is that it’s going to take more than just one first-round pick to fix this operation, but Styles is a great start.

Gang Green Nation​

Sonny Styles is a special player. He’s an unbelievable athlete, a sure tackler, and good in coverage. He’s a do it all three down linebacker who has shown versatility to play all over the field as a defensive weapon that few other linebacker prospects have ever shown.

Dan Quinn has been trying to solve the linebacker spot since he got to Washington. One ill-fated attempt was to bring in Bobby Wagner, whom he had with him in Seattle many years ago. Well, prime Wagner is my comp for Styles.

Fantasy Pros (Brown)​

The Washington Commanders need youth and playmaking upside added to their defense with this pick, and Sonny Styles offers both.

After posting a 9.9 RAS score at the combine, Styles won’t fall outside the top 10 in this draft. Last year, Styles posted 71 tackles with 12 quarterback hurries and three pass breakups, per PFF.

FanSided (Williams)​

TRADE! Washington Commanders Receive

No. 3 Pick

2027 Fifth-Round Pick

Arizona Cardinals Receive

No. 7 Pick

2027 Second-, Fourth-, and Sixth-Round Pick

Arizona can stockpile picks, while Dan Quinn and Washington land a new toy. The Commanders defense was, to put it plainly, old and slow last year. They need to start fixing that, and Quinn’s history with elite linebackers would put Styles in a terrific spot to be a game-changer for this defense.

Round 3: Dani Dennis-Sutton, EDGE, Penn State

Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU​

FOX Sports (Cowherd)​

Best corner in the draft is out of LSU. … I think the Commanders, who have many issues — they were a really bad team against the pass. He excels outside the numbers in man coverage. I mean LSU has always been a cornerback and wide receiver factory. Great instincts, excellent length.

SNY (Hughes)​

The Commanders recently released Marshon Lattimore, and after last season’s defensive struggles under Dan Quinn, they need reinforcements. Delane could quickly become a cornerstone in the secondary.

Last Word on Sports (Marshall)​

Arguably the top cornerback in the draft, the Commanders add a key piece to a defense that was among the worst in the league in 2025.

Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State(8)​

ESPN (Reid)​

Downs is one of the smartest football players I’ve ever studied. His football IQ, versatility on the back end and sure tackling ability make him a worthy selection at this spot even though a safety hasn’t been drafted in the top 10 since 2017 (Jamal Adams). Washington gave up a lot of explosive passing plays last season, with opponents averaging 8.1 yards per attempt (third worst in the NFL). The Commanders also had a mere eight interceptions in 2025, which was the fourth worst in the league. Downs could help them improve in both areas.

USA Today (Davis)​

Is he the best defender in this draft? Arguably. Can he play exceptionally in the slot, box or center field? Yep. And Washington could need a leader who can make plays behind the line given the potential departure of LB Bobby Wagner, who will be 36 next season, in free agency.

NFL Draft on SI (Melo)​

Ohio State safety Caleb Downs participated in just on-field drills at the NFL Combine. He should still be a top-10 lock as arguably the cleanest evaluation in the entire draft. Downs is a do-it-all safety who can thrive near the line of scrimmage, or in a ball-hawking role on the back end. The Washington Commanders need a physical tone setter on defense, because Dan Quinn’s unit looked directionless in 2025.

Pro Football Network (Cummings)​

The Commanders could go with Rueben Bain Jr. here, but Dan Quinn traditionally likes longer EDGE defenders. Caleb Downs is no mere consolation prize; he’s an immediate, fusing presence in an embattled secondary, thanks to his rare versatility and football IQ.

Round 3: Derrick Moore, EDGE, Michigan

Derrick Moore wasn’t able to test at the NFL Combine, but it doesn’t take much film study to know he has one of the best explosiveness profiles in the 2026 NFL Draft EDGE class. At 6’4″, 255 pounds, with near-34″ arms, he fits Quinn’s size profile off the edge, and he’s proven he can channel overwhelming power with his physical gifts.

Round 5: Malachi Fields, WR, Notre Dame

Round 6: Pat Coogan, C, Indiana

Round 6: Aaron Anderson, WR, LSU

Round 7: Alzillion Hamilton, CB, Fresno State

A to Z Sports​

While the medical concerns were proven to be false with Downs, some still question if his tape screams top-10 pick, especially given the positional value debate. To me, Downs is one of, if not the best, pure prospects in this class. He is the top player on multiple teams’ boards. He is one of the most instinctual and ready-made safeties we have seen come into the league. He can play in the post, roam the box, and run the alley as a nickel. He’s just a damn good football player, which is something the Commanders need on that side of the ball.

Round 3: Zakee Wheatley, S, Penn State

A to Z Sports (Roberts)​

The Commanders had the worst defense in the NFL in 2025. Downs adds a much-needed presence on the back end of the defense, one that head coach Dan Quinn can use in a lot of different ways.

Round 3: Malachi Lawrence, EDGE, UCF

4 for 4 (Smith)​

Downs is a highly intelligent safety with elite ball skills and a high tackle floor. He acts as a “coach on the field” for a Commanders secondary that needs a stabilizing presence in the deep third.

Tankathon​

Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame(7)​

Roster Watch (Carpentier)​

Round 3: Derrick Moore, EDGE, Michigan

Philadelphia Inquirer (Jackson)​

The idea of pairing Love with Jayden Daniels in the backfield would give nightmares to the NFC East and the rest of the conference. Love is a three-down back with elite speed (4.36 second 40-yard dash) and pass catching ability.

Fantasy Pros (Woolcock)​

The Washington Commanders cutting ties with Kliff Kingsbury, a year removed from an NFC Championship birth, to promote David Blough to offensive coordinator is telling. This should mean more under center, play-action and read options for quarterback Jayden Daniels.

The best way to do that is by having a legitimate threat in the backfield. With Jacory Croskey-Merritt the only running back currently under contract, they opt to add Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jeremiyah Love.

At 6-foot, 214 pounds and coming off a 1,100-yard rushing season with 19 total touchdowns, Love was most analysts’ and scouts’ RB1 coming into 2025. I bought in, riding an 80-1 Heisman Trophy ticket all the way to New York. He went on to increase his output by another 200 rushing yards and two touchdowns, staying healthy all season on his way to winning the Doak Walker Award.

Love will immediately bring home-run hitting ability to the nation’s capital with his combination of blazing speed and exceptional contact balance. If he can bulk up some to improve his pass protection while further developing his route tree, he could be one of the league’s top running backs in a few years.

Fantasy Pros (Fitzmaurice)​

Would the defensively needy Commanders take a running back here when they only have two draft picks in the first four rounds? The temptation to pair Jeremiyah Love with quarterback Jayden Daniels proves irresistible. Love is the only fine-dining option in a fast-food running back class.

Panthers Wire (Rizzuti)​

The Commanders will look to maximize the talents of soon-to-be third-year quarterback Jayden Daniels.

Love and his presence not only make Daniels an even greater threat as a rusher, but the unanimous All-American can also serve as a home-run threat in the passing game.

M Live (Raven)​

The Commanders could go in several directions. But with the seventh overall selection and the need for youth on offense to pair with Jayden Daniels, Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love is too much to pass up. He looks like an immediate difference maker.

Fantasy Pros​

This is one of the most exciting fantasy landing spots in the mock. Love’s explosiveness paired with Jayden Daniels could give Washington one of the most dynamic rushing attacks in the NFL. The Commanders need offensive playmakers, and Love fits perfectly.

Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State​

Mock Draft Database​

Spencer Fano, OT, Utah​

NBC Sports Bay Area (Maiocco)​

The big boys need to make Jayden Daniels feel more comfortable.

Source: https://www.hogshaven.com/mock-draf...r-the-washington-commanders-after-the-combine