How the Commanders Blew It (Again) in 2026 Free Agency

By Sarah Chen · Published 2026-03-25 · Commanders 2026 free agency tracker: Offseason moves, signings

Another offseason, another round of head-scratching decisions from Ashburn. The Commanders, fresh off a 6-11 season where Sam Howell threw 29 interceptions, entered 2026 with roughly $70 million in cap space. That's a lot of cheddar to reshape a roster that hasn't seen the playoffs since 2020. They spent it, alright, just not in ways that inspire much confidence down at FedExField.

The Big Swings (and Misses)

Their biggest splash came early, signing former Chiefs safety Justin Reid to a three-year, $36 million deal. Reid's a solid player, no doubt, coming off a 2025 season with 3 interceptions and 7 pass breakups. But he'll be 29 when the season starts, and that contract feels like overpaying for past production. Remember Landon Collins? This has a similar vibe. Then there's the defensive line. After trading Jonathan Allen to the Texans mid-season for a 2026 second-rounder, Washington needed to reload. They brought in veteran defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins on a two-year, $18 million contract. Rankins had 5 sacks for the Bengals in 2025, but he's more of a rotational piece than a game-wrecker. They also re-signed defensive end Dorance Armstrong to a two-year, $14 million extension. Armstrong's 4.5 sacks last year were fine, but the Commanders desperately need an elite edge rusher to complement Montez Sweat, who had 11 sacks in 2025. They didn't get one.

Questionable Quarterback Strategy

Here's the real talk: the quarterback situation is still a mess. Sam Howell, despite his struggles, remains on the roster with a cap hit of $1.5 million. He's cheap, but after completing just 58% of his passes in 2025, he's not the answer. The Commanders did sign Jacoby Brissett to a one-year, $7 million deal, presumably as a high-end backup or bridge option. Brissett started 11 games for the Patriots in 2025, throwing for 2,400 yards and 14 touchdowns. He's a professional, but he’s not winning you a division title. They passed on several intriguing free-agent QBs, including Baker Mayfield, who signed with the Saints for $25 million per year. My hot take? Not pursuing Mayfield more aggressively was a massive blunder. He’s shown he can win with less. Instead, they’re trotting out Howell and Brissett. It's a recipe for another sub-.500 season.

Where They Still Need Help

The offensive line, particularly at left guard and right tackle, remains a concern. Andrew Norwell, who started 15 games at left guard in 2025, is still a free agent and likely won't be back. They signed a few depth pieces, like former Eagles guard Sua Opeta, but no true starters. The receiver room also needs another playmaker. Terry McLaurin is a stud, racking up 1,100 yards and 7 touchdowns last season. Jahan Dotson showed flashes with 650 yards, but there's a drop-off after that. They brought back Jamison Crowder on a one-year veteran minimum deal, but he's not moving the needle. The draft will be critical, especially with their first-round pick at No. 8 overall. They need to hit a home run there.

Prediction: The Commanders will finish 5-12 in 2026, and the calls for another complete organizational overhaul will reach a fever pitch by Thanksgiving.