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NFL 2022: 5 teams to watch during free agency

By Russell S. Baxter

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - SEPTEMBER 12: Indianapolis Colts GM Chris Ballard is seen before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lucas Oil Stadium on September 12, 2021 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - SEPTEMBER 12: Indianapolis Colts GM Chris Ballard is seen before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lucas Oil Stadium on September 12, 2021 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /
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NFL 2022
LANDOVER, MARYLAND – JANUARY 02: Head coach Ron Rivera of the Washington Football Team looks on from the sideline during the first half against the Philadelphia Eagles at FedExField on January 02, 2022 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Todd Olszewski/Getty Images) /

3. Washington Commanders

In terms of off-the-field, the franchise has made its share of headlines in recent years.

As for the product on the playing field, the newly-named Washington Commanders have had their ups and downs but mostly of the latter variety. The club hasn’t had a winning season since finishing 8-7-1 in 2016 but did win a division title in 2020 with a 7-9 mark. All told, Washington has not won at least 10 games since capturing the NFC East in 2012 with a 10-6 record.

Head coach Ron Rivera begins his third year with the organization and it’s safe to say that the team in is the market for a starting quarterback. The 2021 season began with newcomer Ryan Fitzpatrick but he went down in Week 1 and Taylor Heinicke was the starter for the majority of the year. He, Kyle Allen, and Garrett Gilbert remain on the roster.

The Washington defense – second in the NFL in fewest total yards allowed in 2020 – fell off considerably from a year ago even when 2020 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year Chase Young was healthy.

Coordinator Jack Del Rio could use some help in the secondary. Along with the questions at quarterback, will the Commanders try to retain potential free-agent guard Brandon Scherff?

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