The Washington Commanders are gearing up for one of the most critical offseasons in franchise history. General manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn face challenges, and with only six selections in the 2026 NFL Draft, being aggressive in free agency is crucial.
Nobody expected the Commanders to be languishing at 3-8 coming off their bye week. Injuries, aging players regressing, and young players not progressing effectively have caused their demise. It's evident Peters needs a rethink, and this roster will look a lot different by the time 2026 rolls around.
There is some good news. The Commanders could have more than $100 million in salary-cap space if the required sacrifices arrive. They only have 34 players under contract, and Peters has the most pending free agents of any NFL team. Significant changes are coming, and after how things have unfolded this season, no fan will be complaining.
With this in mind, and it is Black Friday after all, here are 10 dream free agents who could ignite a massive Commanders' offseason shopping splurge next spring.
Not all will hit the open market. Still, it's fun to think about.
Dream free agents who could ignite a massive Commanders offseason shopping spree
Commanders could sign Trey Hendrickson
Defensive End | Cincinnati Bengals
The Commanders need more help on their defensive edge. That was a concern before the campaign, and these fears have been realized. Dorance Armstrong Jr. is the only dependable pass-rusher, and he's hurt. Therefore, this could be Adam Peters' top priority when the 2026 offseason arrives.
Trey Hendrickson could be the most accomplished free agent set to hit the market, regardless of position. The All-Pro eventually signed a new contract with the Cincinnati Bengals, but it didn't come with any added years. This relationship has seemingly soured, and all signs point to the NFL's sack leader in 2023 and 2024 taking his chances elsewhere.
Acquiring Hendrickson wouldn't be cheap, but he would instantly transform the Commanders' fortunes.
Commanders could sign Kyle Pitts
Tight End | Atlanta Falcons
Zach Ertz has been a productive performer over his two years in Washington. The veteran tight end isn't getting any younger, and with Ben Sinnott and Colson Yankoff remaining unknown quantities, scouring the free-agent market for a proven weapon in the passing game could be an option to consider.
While 2021 first-round pick Kyle Pitts never reached his generational tag coming out of college, he's got the athleticism and sharpness to provide an immediate upgrade. The Florida product went over 1,000 receiving yards as a rookie and has put up decent numbers ever since. He'll also be relishing the prospect of starting fresh elsewhere.
Much will depend on the financial demands, but pairing Pitts with Jayden Daniels represents an intriguing possibility.