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We are almost two full weeks into the new NFL league year. The first wave of free agency is essentially over, and some teams already look dramatically different.
Some of the NFL’s top free agents remain on the market. Tyrann Mathieu, Bobby Wagner and Jarvis Landry are still unsigned, with several value free agents also looking for homes. While the big names make the headlines during the legal tampering period, it’s the players signed between now and training camp that can often make the difference for contending teams.
The Washington Commanders have remained mostly quiet outside of trading for quarterback Carson Wentz. Fans always knew the quarterback acquisition would always be the team’s biggest move this offseason, although the Wentz move came out of left field.
The Commanders have signed only two outside free agents — guard Andrew Norwell and defensive end Efe Obada. Washington signed Norwell to replace the released Ereck Flowers, while Obada will bring experienced depth behind Chase Young and Montez Sweat.
With all of the big quarterback moves seemingly done — although we await Baker Mayfield’s fate — NFL.com recently unveiled its new power rankings.
Did Washington move up after the acquisition of Wentz?
Actually, no, Washington moved down a spot to No. 26.
Carson Wentz just wants to be loved. “Knowing that you’re wanted and feeling that support means a lot,” the veteran said in his first news conference after being acquired by the Commanders. “It allows me to play confidently, freely, which will allow me to play my best ball.” Wentz profiles as an upgrade over the inconsistent Taylor Heinicke, but you wonder if Washington would have ultimately been better off finding a cheaper solution on the open market. Wentz hasn’t been a special player for a long time, and it’s telling that two teams have now cut ties with the former No. 2 overall pick in as many years. Perhaps Wentz can rediscover his 2017 form with a standout supporting cast — that’s just not something the Commanders have at the moment.
Wentz has a lot to prove. But Washington should get a healthy Young and Sweat back, among others. Wentz is an upgrade over the gritty Taylor Heinicke, but how many more wins is that worth? Apparently, not much, according to Dan Hanzus.
Washington lost four significant contributors from last season: guards Brandon Scherff and Flowers and defensive tackles Matt Ioannidis and Tim Settle. Scherff is the biggest loss, but Washington has gotten accustomed to playing without him over the years. Wes Schweitzer isn’t better than Scherff, but he is a more than capable replacement. Norwell and Flowers are essentially equals, with Norwell half the price.
It will be interesting to see where the Commanders find depth at defensive tackle and who starts at inside linebacker in the fall.