The Washington Commanders had one glaring problem this season: its subpar run defense. The Commanders’ run defense ranked near the bottom of the league and was a thorn in its own side all season long. The explosiveness of Offensive Rookie of the Year Jayden Daniels and the resurgence of wide receiver Terry McLaurin are primary reasons why the Commanders were so successful in 2024.
Because of that, NFL Insider and ESPN reporter Dan Graziano says he expects the Commanders to be “aggressive” in its search for defensive roster upgrades.
Graziano: Expect the Commanders to be aggressive this offseason in pursuing roster upgrades on defense. Much like the Texans last year after C.J. Stroud’s dazzling rookie season, Washington believes it has something special in quarterback Jayden Daniels and wants to maximize his rookie-contract window. Getting to the NFC Championship Game in Daniels’ first year only makes Washington more likely to get aggressive for someone like Garrett if and when Cleveland decides to move him.
Washington needs a lot of work on defense, and don’t be surprised to see the team stretch for an impact player or two in the coming months. The Commanders were 19th in defensive EPA this season.
Washington has already been named a prime place for Myles Garrett to land if and when Cleveland decides to move him, so it’s not far-fetched to think the Commanders would actively seek a trade. Garrett, arguably the NFL’s best defensive player, is a beast on the field and would instantly improve the performance of the Commanders’ defense.
However, the Commanders could also answer this question in the draft or free agency. If they decide Cleveland’s asking price for Garrett is too high, they can look for other options that will not cost them trade assets. Washington has options. We’ll all have to wait and see what they choose to do.