Adam Peters
Getty
Commanders general manager Adam Peters.
The Washington Commanders added to their roster during the first stages of free agency. Furthermore, they own the No. 7 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. However, one journalist questions whether the franchise is a reload or a rebuild. Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic questioned where the franchise currently stands.
“The Commanders should have more firmly committed to the ‘rebuild’ bucket. Their roster looked every bit its age in 2025, and GM Adam Peters’ splashier moves thus far in free agency are pretty self-aware.”
In effect, the team did not get too much younger in her estimation. In fact, they stayed relatively the same in spots. Yet, the team did not seem to get older. Staying in the same age groups when bringing on talent allows for new players to step in. Granted, they may be the same age as those who were replaced, but the talent level has increased.
Leading off “My Guys, FA 2026”
EDGE Odafe Oweh
6-5, 251 • 6th year
Last 7 Games, 2025:
•30 QB pressures
•6.5 QB sacks
•22.5% pressure rate
•2 forced fumbles
Oweh has 16 sacks over his last 25 games. @997TheFox • #KeepPounding pic.twitter.com/Rfzyhp49Jk
— John Ellis (@1PantherPlace) March 9, 2026
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js
Diversity of Signing Tells a Broader Picture
Instead of focusing on just one position of need or role on the field, general manager Adam Peters addressed multiple areas. This approach lets him fill more immediate gaps early, then later focus on specific positions for depth. The Commanders’ strategy is to maximize effectiveness through broad initial moves, clarifying their team’s direction.
“He’s added to the pass rush (Odafe Oweh, K’Lavon Chaisson, and ILB Leo Chenal, who can blitz); defensive tackle (Tim Settle); filled a hole at tight end (Chig Okonkwo); and gave the secondary some juice (Amik Robertson and Nick Cross).”
Chig Okonkwo
GettyNew Commanders tight end Chig Okonkwo
Oweh, Chaisson, Chenal, and Okonkwo are immediate starters. Peters looks to them to replace veterans Von Miller, Bobby Wagner, and Zach Ertz. The team needed multiple edge rushers, so it staggered the pay scale. Oweh will make $100 million during the course of his deal. After a year or two of sacks and the physical component to rush and set the edge, the lion’s share of the pass becomes his responsibility.
On the other hand, Chaisson is a prove-it deal that will not hurt the cap. The former first-round pick enjoyed a postseason of three sacks, including the continued harassment of Sam Darnold during the Super Bowl. Okonkwo, if he can improve his blocking, provides a speedy option at tight end. Chenal could end up being the centerpiece of the first wave of signings.
First, he brings athleticism and versatility that were lacking up front. New coordinator Daronte Jones needed a chess piece to blitz, fill against the run, and cover. With that said, the quietest piece may end up as the most integral.
Leo Chenal
GettyCommanders linebacker Leo Chenal.
Robertson Counted on to Play Swiss Army Knife
When reviewing Robertson’s 2025 stats and film, you can say he struggled. Allowing nine touchdowns and missing 12 tackles does not bode well for the veteran. However, as this explains, numbers may not lie, but they tell a different story.
Robertson stands five feet eight. While he did play extensively on the outside to start his career, he flourished as a slot corner. The Lions suffered multiple injuries to outside corners. Robertson, pressed into action on the outside, struggled.
However, in the Jones defense, Robertson, while he will still cover the slot, will account for multiple roles. The Commanders’ new system will possibly mirror Brian Flores’ approach in Minnesota. As a result, you could see the defensive back line up in the slot, the box, or blitzing off the edge. Additionally, Peters could look to bring in outside corner help to ensure that Robertson does not need to line up on the perimeter, maximizing his effectiveness.
Amik Robertson
GettyCommanders nickel back Amik Robertson.
Daniels Holds Key to Resurgence
Rodrique could not fully commit to the rebuild label because of Jayden Daniels. Daniels enters a pivotal point.
“It sure looks like a rebuild in many ways, yet I couldn’t bring myself to put them there considering the potential they have with Jayden Daniels. Adding more top-tier receiving help must be next.”
With the lure of his fifth-year option, he must play well. In most rebuilds, teams will employ a rookie/unproven quarterback. Daniels led the Commanders to an NFC championship. One aspect that plays well in his favor is the 5-1 record after December 1. How will the new changes affect the Commanders?
Jayden Daniels
GettyCommanders quarterback Jayden Daniels before a game on Novemeber 2, 2025.