The Washington Commanders have some big-hitting additions that could transform their defensive fortunes in 2024. Questions remain about the edge rushing options and the outside cornerbacks. However, everything else looks pretty solid heading into Dan Quinn's first season at the helm.
One of the most overlooked signings promises to play an integral role. The Commanders identified Frankie Luvu as a high-priority target once the legal tampering period began. He was offered an extension to stay with the Carolina Panthers, but the promise of taking his game to new heights within Quinn's creative scheme was enough to tip the scales in Washington's favor.
Luvu quietly emerged as one of the league's most dynamic linebackers over the last two seasons. His explosiveness, instincts, and ability to contribute in all phases came to the fore on an otherwise underwhelming Panthers team. This means he remains underrated among the national media, but general manager Adam Peters recognized his talent and pounced accordingly.
Commanders getting an immediate upgrade with free-agent signing Frankie Luvu
The former undrafted free agent out of Washington State wasted no time in making an impact over offseason workouts. Luvu received widespread plaudits for his on-field production and early emergence into the heart and soul of Joe Whitt Jr.'s defense. Something that was highlighted further by ex-team cornerback Fred Smoot based on comments via Fan Nation.
"Not just the energy, not just the intensity, not just knowing where to be. He looked the part, he plays the part and I can’t wait to see him…being part of some organized chaos. He’s like a rolling ball with knives sticking out of it. I just can’t wait to see him go downhill."
- Fred Smoot via Fan Nation
Luvu promises to form a highly productive linebacking tandem with Bobby Wagner. This looks like a tone-setting duo who can provide stability to a position group that became an ongoing source of frustration under Ron Rivera. Their arrival could also give Jamin Davis some extra freedom to maximize his outstanding athletic attributes on the edge.
The Commanders gave Luvu a three-year, $31 million deal with a $11.5 million signing bonus and $19.12 million guaranteed. He was one of very few who received long-term commitments from Peters, which is a testament to the esteem in which the second-level enforcer is held in league circles.
There isn't much Luvu cannot do on the field. His exceptional energy is infectious and should rub off positively on his teammates. The determination he displayed throughout Carolina's two-win campaign in 2023 was nothing short of astonishing. If the Tafuna (American Samoa) High School product brings this to Washington, his impact will be immediate.
Quinn will already be thinking up ways on how to ensure Luvu enters the elite category for linebackers across the NFL next season. With 236 tackles, 12.5 sacks, nine passes defended, 29 tackles for loss, 20 quarterback hits, and 26 pressures over the last two years as a starter, expectations couldn't be higher.
This ongoing praise is nothing more than Luvu deserves. If he responds positively to Quinn's schematic demands and gets some helpful hints from Wagner to take his production up a notch, this will be one of the best free-agent signings made by the Commanders in recent franchise history.
