The Washington Commanders need help on defense. Specifically, the Commanders need help on the defensive line. Ideally, Washington would bring in pass-rush help this offseason, but must add players who can also set the edge in the run game.
The Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles have a player who could help Washington, and he will be a free agent next month. Josh Sweat, 27, just completed his seventh NFL season, all with the Eagles, and is set to enter free agency after one of his best all-around years.
After recording eight sacks in the regular season, Sweat sacked Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes 2.5 times in Sunday’s Super Bowl LIX. It was the most sacks in one game for Sweat, and he was even more impactful than the final stat sheet indicated.
Last offseason, Sweat restructured his contract, taking less money in 2024, and it may prove to be the best decision he’s ever made. Sweat may be about to cash in, but there is no guarantee he’ll leave Philadelphia.
“Money’s important, sure, but I want to be in the right situation,” Sweat said via Jeff McLane of the Philadelphia Inquirer. “I don’t know what it looks like for me now, but I’m happy.”
Sweat is in a good place with the Eagles. Philadelphia general manager Howie Roseman will have a tough time keeping everyone, but Sweat has been an integral part of the Eagles throughout his NFL career.
Something Sweat said should make the Commanders a potentially good fit if he does leave the Eagles: the right situation.
For years, you couldn’t have said that about Washington. Things have changed under GM Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn. And check Quinn’s history with defensive players, particularly edge rushers.
If Roseman can’t strike a deal with Sweat before free agency, he’ll have plenty of suitors. Sweat doesn’t turn 28 until March and could make an immediate impact in Washington.
Don’t be surprised if the Commanders are an option for Sweat — if he hits free agency.