The Washington Commanders made a bold decision this offseason when they didn’t make a move at quarterback. Instead of bringing in an established veteran to lead the offense, they opted to go with 2022 fifth-round pick, Sam Howell.
Howell made one start as a rookie, in the season finale Week 18. He led the Commanders to a victory over the Dallas Cowboys, going 11-of-19 for 169 yards with one touchdown and one interception. He added five rushes for 35 yards and another score.
The only competition that was brought in this offseason for Howell was veteran Jacoby Brissett, who played well as the starter for the Cleveland Browns last season while Deshaun Watson served his suspension. They will battle it out during training camp for the starting job in Week 1.
Regardless of who wins that battle, the Commanders’ success will hinge on their defense. This unit has the talent to be among the best in the NFL given how dominant of a defensive front they have.
Jonathan Allen, Daron Payne, Montez Sweat and Chase Young are a fearsome foursome along the defensive front that would give any offensive line fits in the trenches. They cover up for any issues the rest of the defense may have. But, could there be more moves on the horizon for this defense?
As the team prepares for training camp, ESPN NFL Insider Field Yates believes the one move that the Commanders need to make resides on defense. He believes adding some depth at linebacker is a must before the offseason is over.
“The Washington front is so good that any linebacker looking for work should have the Commanders on the radar. This team could also use depth beyond projected starters Jamin Davis and Cody Barton, the latter of whom was signed as a free agent this offseason. There are a handful of notable unsigned inside backers, including Jon Bostic (who started five games for Washington last season), Kwon Alexander, Deion Jones and Zach Cunningham.”
In addition to Bostic remaining a free agent, Cole Holcomb also departed this offseason. He signed a deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers, leaving a void at the second level of the team’s defense.
As Yates pointed out, getting to play behind the defensive line that the Commanders have is something every linebacker dreams of. They would be opened up to make plays as their front dominants in the trenches. All four of the players that he mentioned would be good fits for this defense as late offseason additions.
