Washington Commanders Free Agency news: Analyzing NFL side's latest signings
The Washington Commanders are heading into a pivotal season for head coach Ron Rivera after missing the playoffs in year two of his tenure.
Prior to free agency, the Commanders reached a four-year, $90 million deal with defensive tackle Daron Payne, which included $60 million guaranteed. Payne was previously given the franchise tag. This allowed Washington to concentrate on their needs in free agency.
Daron Payne’s 2022 Pro Bowl season has landed him a 4-year extension with the @Commanders. @94yne https://t.co/NfNvFbJQHz
Washington Commanders signings
Washington has gained a high-end backup who can challenge Sam Howell for the starting job. Jacoby Brissett had a strong season with Cleveland, and he is known for being a good locker room presence and mentor, which is what Howell needs. Brissett can also start for an extended period if required.
Commanders make move for veteran presence in QB room that has fresh starts under his belt (11 starts last season) and is a dual run-throw threat. Jacoby Brissett was a good pickup by the Commanders #HTTC https://t.co/n2mKJ886zK
Washington gained a starter at both guard and tackle positions. Andrew Wylie is versatile and is expected to play right tackle, while Cosmi moves to guard. Wylie had a strong Super Bowl performance against Eagles pass rusher Hassan Reddick. Minimal risk is associated with the signing, as Wylie is not ultra-expensive.
Nick Gates will provide competition for the starting center position. Washington has had many health issues at center in the past two seasons, and Gates is known for his tough and physical blocking. This is what the team wants, especially in their run game. The only risk associated with Gates is his health, given that he is returning from a severe leg injury.
Danny Johnson has played as a backup corner for the Commanders over the past two years. He has done a nice job in this role, and the team values him due to his versatility, which allows him to play inside or outside. The only risk associated with Johnson is his lack of contributions to special teams.
Cody Barton has signed a one-year deal with Washington and will play as a middle linebacker. He had a strong second half for Seattle last season and will be playing behind a line that protects him more than the Seahawks' front. This should allow him to make more plays in the run game. The only risk associated with Barton is his inconsistency as a developing player.
Tyler Larsen has been signed to provide more depth and stronger options at the center position. The team has struggled with injuries in the past two seasons, and Larsen adds a solid backup option, particularly in run-blocking. The only risk associated with Larsen is his durability and consistency, which have been issues for the Commanders in the past.
Efe Obada has signed a one-year deal as a backup defensive end who can also play as a tackle in different packages. He is known for his versatility and recorded four sacks as a backup last season. The only risk associated with Obada is his age, as he is not a young pass rusher, but Washington has good depth along their defensive line.
Notable Washington Commanders departures
Washington moved on from two of their starting quarterbacks in 2022 by cutting Carson Wentz and letting Taylor Heinicke leave in free agency. They have also lost guard Trai Turner, running back J.D. McKissic, and linebacker John Bostic.