A Different Feel Around Washington This Offseason
Commanders’ free agency departures have become a real talking point this offseason.
Instead of buzz about who might be coming in, the conversation around the league is starting to focus on who might be heading out. Several well-known veterans tied to the Commanders are being mentioned as likely to explore other options once free agency opens.
Bobby Wagner’s Future Remains Unclear
Bobby Wagner has been a steady presence, but age and direction are key here. Washington is clearly trying to build something sustainable, and that usually means leaning younger. Whether Wagner looks to chase one more run with a contender or decides it is time, his future in Washington feels uncertain. While Wagner has become a beloved player in Washington, his time with the Commanders may soon come to an end. According to Fox Sports reporter Greg Auman, the Rams and Seahawks are two teams to keep an eye on.
“A new coordinator for the Commanders could mean Wagner is signing elsewhere, a future Hall of Famer still making plays consistently,” Auman wrote. “Could he return to the Seahawks or Rams and try to chase a second ring on the way out?”
Von Miller Could Be on the Move
Von Miller falls into a similar category. There is respect there, no question. But veteran pass rushers often want a clear shot at meaningful games in January. Washington may not be positioned to offer that right now, especially if the front office is focused on flexibility rather than short-term pushes. Miller has already been quoted as showing interest in the Denver Broncos in 2026.
“Y’all make room for me after this season. Y’all make room for me over there with the Denver Broncos. I would love to be in that linebacker room and give Nik Bonitto all the knowledge that I’ve got. Everything that I’ve got is for him to be the best version of himself. I would love to be a Denver Bronco next season and contribute in any way that I can to improve those guys. I would contribute to what you are doing. Watch you, see the way you play, and any of the knowledge that I have, I will give it to you.”Von Miller
What Happens With Deebo Samuel
Lastly, Deebo Samuel is one of the names drawing the most attention. The idea made sense when Washington brought him in. He was a proven weapon in San Francisco, and there was a lot of promise in bringing him to Washington. However, for some reason, he never really clicked under Kliff Kingsbury’s offensive scheme, and it would not be surprising if both sides see value in a fresh start. For a player at his stage, finding the right landing spot is important. Former teammate George Kittle seems to think that Samuel could return to the 49ers.
“My one message for Niners fans?” Kittle said. “Hey if a rebuild year got us 13 wins and a win in the wild card (round of the playoffs), that’s pretty good. It’s only going to get a little better from that. And all the boys are coming back again, and who knows, we might add some past friends. I don’t know, I hung out with Deebo last night — that was fun. I love Deebo, you’re kidding me.”
One thing does feel clear here. The Commanders do not seem interested in keeping veteran names around just to look competitive. Dan Quinn and company seem like they are ready to clear some cap space and let younger players take on bigger roles.
While fans enjoy seeing splashy moves in free agency, it appears the Commanders may be taking a different direction this year. Nothing is official yet as free agency has not begun and plans can change quickly in this league.
Still, the tone around Washington suggests a team preparing to turn the page. If these Commanders’ free agency departures happen, they will say a lot about where the franchise is headed.
If this ends up being a quieter offseason than some expected, it probably lines up with how Washington has been talking all along. There has been a clear emphasis on patience and doing things the right way, even if that means taking a step back first. You could hear that tone again when Dan Quinn spoke to the media this week.
Main Image: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images
Dan Quinn’s Press Conference Marked a Shift for the Washington Commanders