The struggling Washington Commanders, finishing at the bottom of their division, face numerous positions to address. While their substantial $96 million cap space offers flexibility, they can’t afford top-tier free agents for every position. Here are two affordable options:
1.EDGE Derek Barnett
Following the departures of pass-rushing talents like Montez Sweat and Chase Young, the Commanders urgently require a player capable of pressuring quarterbacks. Head coach Dan Quinn, previously the defensive coordinator for the Cowboys, is familiar with Barnett’s abilities from his time with the Eagles over the past three seasons.
Barnett arrived in Philadelphia with considerable anticipation after surpassing Reggie White’s sack record at Tennessee and being chosen 14th overall in the 2017 NFL Draft. However, his performance fell short of expectations, accumulating only 21.5 sacks across 72 games with the team. It’s worth noting that he did play a crucial role in securing a victory in Super Bowl LII, making a late-game fumble recovery from the Patriots’ Tom Brady.
Disappointed by his perceived misuse in Philadelphia during the previous season, Barnett expressed his desire for a trade. However, instead of accommodating his request, the Eagles opted to release him. Subsequently, Barnett found a new home with the Houston Texans, where the 27-year-old swiftly secured a starting role for the AFC South champions.
During his seven-game tenure with the Texans, Barnett amassed 2.5 sacks along with 13 quarterback hits. He also showcased strong performances against the run, contributing significantly as the team fought for a playoff berth. Pro Football Focus ranks him as the NFL’s 19th-best edge-rusher, and with an estimated market value of $5 million per year, Barnett could provide valuable depth for Washington in the edge-rushing position.
CB Adoree Jackson,
Washington’s secondary struggled significantly last season, allowing an average of 262.2 passing yards per game, making it the league’s weakest. With cornerback Kendall Fuller likely departing in free agency, leaving an impending void, the Commanders could benefit from adding a player of Jackson’s caliber.
After being selected 18th overall by Tennessee in 2017, Jackson spent the last three seasons in New York as a seven-year veteran. Unfortunately, injuries sidelined him for 14 games during his tenure with the Giants. However, he closed out the 2023 season on a high note, contributing a pick-six against the Eagles in Week 16 and forcing a fumble against the Rams in Week 17.
Bringing Jackson into the mix alongside young cornerbacks like Emmanuel Forbes and Benjamin St. Juste would be a strategic move for new general manager Adam Peters. This addition, projected to cost around $6 million per year, could bolster Washington’s secondary significantly.
