Washington Commanders: “Dos” and “Don’ts” for free agency 2023
By Hunter Noll
The Washington Commanders should be in for a wild offseason. There is a strong chance the team will be sold soon, and with it could come some big changes. With NFL free agency on the horizon, it felt appropriate to give the team a list of “dos” and don’ts” as they may be a little preoccupied with other things.
Don’t sign another mediocre veteran QB to “compete” for the starting job. Either bring in a clear backup or sign a top-tier talent to be the clear starter. No more of this journeyman castaway QB who you’re hoping can find some magic in Washington. Here’s a hint, he won’t.
Do spend money on the offensive line. The Washington Commanders have had bad luck with their offensive line over the past few seasons. Underachievers have popped up, but the main issue has been injuries. The depth has been constantly tested and usually ends poorly for the Commanders. Sign a big-name starter, and get some legitimate depth. You can’t win without an offensive line.
Don’t overpay for a defensive back. In the past, the Commanders have dropped money on a few “good-not-great” defensive backs. It never seems to work out all that well for them. There don’t seem to be many “star” secondary talents in free agency this year. If you can get someone on a reasonable deal, go for it. Don’t break the bank, though.
Do break the bank for Daron Payne. There’s no reason for Payne not to be on the roster in 2023. If you have to place a franchise tag on him, do it (Washington has, in fact). But locking up Payne to a long-term deal should be a priority. Payne is an elite interior defensive lineman coming off the best season of his career. Keeping him with Jonathan Allen, Montez Sweat, and Chase Young is a no-brainer.
Don’t “panic buy” any free agents. So you wanted to get a top-level talent at a specific position, but everyone is signing elsewhere? Don’t let that get to your head. Signing an average player for an above-average player price tag won’t make people think he’s a star. It will just make them laugh at you for paying that much.
Do find some help at linebacker. The Commanders have shown a willingness to try and fix their secondary issues over the years, even if it hasn’t gone well. They haven’t seemed to show that same urgency with the linebacker position. Despite obvious problems, Washington seems content bringing back mediocre talent. Make a big splash at this position. Even if it’s not a superstar, there are certainly plenty of talented options out there.
The Washington Commanders need to spend some money this offseason, but they need to do it wisely. That can be achieved if they follow some basic “dos” and “dont’s”.