The Washington Commanders haven't exactly splashed the cash over free agency so far. They emphasized retaining established contributors from their fairytale 2024 campaign. Adam Peters also penned some proven veterans to one-year deals, which he's hoping can have the desired effect once again.
Peters did shell out significant financial resources to acquire defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw, but it was relatively cost-effective aside from that. Running it back was the primary objective. That didn't stop one or two from taking their chances elsewhere.
Arguably the most disappointing of these was Jeremy Chinn. The standout safety thrived under Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. in 2024. This didn't go unnoticed by others around the league, with the Las Vegas Raider swooping with a two-year deal that proved too difficult to turn down.
This left the Commanders short on the backend. Peters acquired Will Harris, which should help fill the void. One NFL analyst believes another dynamic free-agent safety should be considered over the second wave.
Commanders projected as Julian Blackmon's next destination in free agency
Nick Brinkerhoff from USA Today Sports tipped the Commanders to make a bold bid for Julian Blackmon. The analyst thought an offseason to heal from a shoulder issue could be enough to return to something like his old form under Quinn's expert guidance.
The safety carousel continues to spin, as Tre'von Moehrig departed Vegas for Carolina and Jeremy Chinn departed Washington for Vegas. That leaves a safety opening in Dan Quinn's defense, a position he is always looking to add to. Blackmon played through a shoulder injury last season, forcing him to change positions. With an offseason to heal, the safety figures to be a versatile option who should boost whatever defense gets to pencil his name in. Given the need for the Commanders and their desire to spend, this feels like a great match.Nick Brinkerhoff
The Commanders seemed happy enough with Quan Martin last season. Harris is projected to start after flashing for the New Orleans Saints in 2024. Washington also remains high on the likes of Percy Butler and, in particular, undrafted free agent Tyler Owens.
That said, Peters cannot settle in pursuit of upgrades. Much will depend on the money involved, but Blackmon has some intriguing traits that look tailor-made for the scheme implemented by Quinn and Whitt.
Blackmon is a former third-round selection with plenty of starting experience over his first five NFL seasons. He can struggle against the run on occasion, but he's one of the best around from a coverage standpoint. This compliments what the Commanders have well, so it's something to consider if the finances work for all parties.
Considering the Commanders have only five selections in the 2025 NFL Draft currently, adding more from the veteran pool is only going to help their cause. And there's no doubt Blackmon represents one of the most intriguing names remaining on the market.
It'll be interesting to see how the Commanders approach things from here on. Peters proved decisive with his additions and left no stone unturned. If he feels like the safety room needs more and Blackmon represents a realistic option, he'll strike with conviction to secure his services.
Time will tell on that one…
