The Washington Commanders surpassed all expectations in year one of the Dan Quinn era. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels was the main culprit for Washington's resurgence, leading the team back to the NFC Playoffs where they won two road games before exiting in the NFC Championship Game.
They head into the offseason with the third most expected cap space among all 32 teams, according to PFF. That means the Commanders will have the resources available to make some upgrades to their roster while they suffer some expected free agency losses.
Offensively, the immediate needs are at wide receiver where the Commanders will look to add a strong No. 2 and pair him alongside Terry McLaurin.
But Quinn will also want some inspection of the available defensive assets as he continues to mold this group to his liking. Specifically at the linebacker spot, Washington may need to explore their options.
Veteran Bobby Wagner is set to become a free agent along with Dante Fowler Jr. Those two would be notable losses, but Washington could counter with a major signing of their own.
Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox has mentioned that the Commanders could be in play for Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Zack Baun, coming off a breakout season that ended with a win in Super Bowl LIX.
"Baun, who was a first-team All-Pro and a Defensive Player of the Year finalist, has established himself as a do-everything defender. The only question is whether he can continue to shine away from Philly's talented defense.
"The rival Commanders should be eager to find out. Washington is trying to build a title contender and may need a new defensive leader with Bobby Wagner scheduled for free agency."
Signing Baun would be a major move for several reasons. One, making a play on Baun takes him away from their vaunted NFC East rival who may lose several more key contributors to free agency in the coming weeks.
But it also strengthens the Commanders defense by adding experience and leadership to the middle of the formation. In pairing him with budding star Frankie Luvu, Washington immediately upgrades their defense heading into next season.
Coming off an All-Pro season, Baun will be in high demand for other teams looking to solidify themselves in the contending mix. But Washington's $68 million in effective cap space will give them a leg up on opposing teams here and perhaps the ability to give Baun the best offer.
The Commanders will not want to dip too far into that pool to get this deal done, but with this cap space, Washington should be considered serious players for Baun and other big free agents looking for a new home in free agency.
