There was some anticipation on how new general manager Adam Peters would approach his first free-agency period in charge of the Washington Commanders.
No team had more cap space in the NFL than Washington, and Peters cautioned weeks ago not to expect splashy moves. Some took that as Peters saying the Commanders would not be active.
That couldn’t have been further from the truth, as Washington agreed to terms with six new players on the first day of the NFL’s legal tampering period.
Here are the moves:
- DE Dorance Armstrong: 3-year deal
- C Tyler Biadasz: 3-year deal
- LB Frankie Luvu: 3-year deal
- RB Austin Ekeler: 2-year deal
- K Brandon McManus: 1-year deal
- G Nick Allegretti: 3-year deal
Of those names, Ekeler’s probably stands out above the rest. However, all six of Washington’s expected new signings (players can’t officially sign with their new team until Wednesday) will either start or play a significant role in 2024.
Gone are the days of Washington winning the offseason. That title belongs to the Eagles these days. The Commanders entered this version of free agency with a lot of cash and a lot of needs. So, instead of sinking significant money into one player, Peters used that cash to find starters at several positions, improving Washington’s overall talent level without sacrificing the team’s future.
Brilliant.
Of these six new signees, only McManus — a kicker — is over 30. All are on manageable contracts with no commitments beyond the 2026 season. If any of these players thrive, the Commanders can sign them to an extension.
Peters’ strategy was precisely what Washington needed to do. The roster’s lack of overall talent meant the Commanders needed to make moves. As we expected, the new additions involved some familiarity.
Armstrong and Biadasz followed head coach Dan Quinn and defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. to Washington. Ekeler was with running backs coach Anthony Lynn for four seasons with the Chargers.
The Commanders were clearly focused on improving the pass rush. Adding Armstrong does that and Washington isn’t done there. Also, this regime wouldn’t ignore the offensive line, especially with a rookie quarterback expected to arrive next month. Biadasz gives the Commanders a good, young, reliable center to work with a young quarterback.
Luvu answers a significant need at linebacker, which should benefit Jamin Davis. Luvu does everything well and is the type of linebacker the Commanders have lacked for years.
Ekeler is a perfect complement to Brian Robinson Jr. and can be a safety valve for a rookie quarterback with his pass-blocking and receiving skills out of the backfield.
We’ll break down each of Washington’s signings once they become official, but overall, it’s an excellent beginning for Peters.