The Washington Commanders have been one of the more promising teams, but struggled last season. The team is ready for a bit of an overhaul on the defensive side of the football and have a lot of cap space to get things done. Let’s take a look at one massive addition the franchise can make this offseason to improve the 53-man roster.
The Washington Commanders are predicted to sign Trey Hendrickson
NFL, Trey Hendrickson, Washington Commanders
Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson (91) watches a replay as the Detroit Lions celebrate a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the NFL Week 5 game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Detroit Lions at Paycor Stadium in downtown Cincinnati on Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025. The Bengals continued a losing streak, falling 37-24 to the Lions.
ESPN’s Aaron Schatz published an article projecting one NFL free agent for each of the 32 teams. For the Washington Commanders, he predicts they will sign edge rusher Trey Hendrickson. Below is what he wrote about the pairing:
“For the No. 1 free agent, we’re looking for three things. First, a team with a gaping hole at the edge rusher position. Second, a team with a lot of cap space. Third, a legitimate playoff contender. The Commanders definitely hit that first qualifier, as three of their top four edges are free agents. They also hit the second qualifier with the sixth-most cap space, per Roster Management System. And you might not think of them as legitimate playoff contenders, but they are only one season removed from appearing in the NFC Championship Game.
“I think coach Quinn will need to try his hardest to convince Hendrickson to come in and help improve the struggling Washington pass rush.”
Hendrickson had a down season with the Cincinnati Bengals, limited to just seven games in 2025. He recorded 16 total tackles (11 solo, five assisted) with three tackles for loss, eight quarterback hits, four sacks, one pass deflection, and one forced fumble. It will be intriguing to see what type of contract Hendrickson will be able to land and if the Washington Commanders are able to sign him.