Adam Peters, Washington Commanders
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General manager Adam Peters of the Washington Commanders on the field prior to the game against the Carolina Panthers at Northwest Stadium on October 20, 2024 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images)
Heading into the 2026 NFL offseason, the Washington Commanders are not far off from being a serious contender in the NFC.
Just two years ago, the Commanders made a shocking run to the NFC Championship Game. Last season, they were expected to be a team to watch, but injuries derailed their season. Jayden Daniels, the team’s star quarterback, only played in seven games.
Despite the down year, Washington at full health will be a problem in the NFC. With a strong offseason, the Commanders could have a shot at a Super Bowl run.
Keeping that in mind, there are a few needs the team will have this offseason.
One of those areas comes in the linebacker department. Washington would be wise to explore the free agency market to bring in a player who can solidify the middle of its defense, while also helping rush the passer.
With that being said, the Commanders have been linked to potentially stealing a key player from an NFC East rival in free agency.
Washington Commanders Could Poach Nakobe Dean from the Eagles
Entering free agency, Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean is one of the most intriguing players available. He’s a good inside linebacker, but is also elite when blitzing.
Hogs Haven recently listed Dean as one of the free agent linebackers Washington could consider pursuing.
“When healthy, he is an impact defender. In 2025 he was one of the best blitzing linebackers in the league. He is prone to occasional lapses in coverage, but his overall rate of yardage allowed in ranked placed him at the 72nd percentile of LBs according to PFF’s figures. He was even better according to PFR.”
Dean has struggled with injury issues throughout his young NFL career. Signing him would come with a bit of a risk, but his talent is worth taking a gamble on.
Throughout the course of the 2025 NFL season with the Eagles, Dean played in 10 games. He racked up 55 tackles, four sacks, two forced fumbles, and a defended pass.
Back in 2024, however, he played in 15 games and had his best career season. He totaled 128 tackles, three sacks, a forced fumble, two fumble recoveries, an interception, and four defended passes.
What Would It Cost the Commanders to Sign Dean?
Another reason why Dean could make sense for the Commanders is the fact that he isn’t going to break the bank. He won’t come cheap, but he’s in a reasonable price range.
Spotrac has projected Dean to command a deal worth around $7.9 million per year. Their suggested contract for him would see him get paid just under $31.6 million over the course of four years.
If that is indeed the price range to sign Dean, Washington should have heavy interest.
Only time will tell whether or not the Commanders actually have interest in Dean or not. He’s a quality player and would be a great fit in Washington, but there are quite a few teams who will look to pursue him when free agency opens.