Adam Peters is in a strong position to make the improvements needed this offseason. The Washington Commanders are loaded with salary-cap space and are an attractive destination once again. But to get the best free agents into the building, you have to pay.
Peters avoided this temptation during his first recruitment period at the helm. Very few signings got long-term commitments. The Commanders adopted a wait-and-see approach, finding the right blend of youth and experience to ensure head coach Dan Quinn could implement his dramatic culture shift. It was a recipe for success.
The Commanders went on a fairytale run to the NFC Championship game. Their Super Bowl window is officially open with quarterback Jayden Daniels under center. This won't go unnoticed by Peters, who must be more aggressive in pursuit of getting over the hump.
If the Commanders want to stand any chance of dethroning the Philadelphia Eagles, they must enhance the trenches. This is where games are won or lost in the postseason. It's also the biggest reason why Washington's bitter division rival steamrolled their way to the Vince Lombardi trophy.
Potential Commanders target Osa Odighizuwa could get $21 million per season
One name being strongly linked with the Commanders is Osa Odighizuwa. The formidable defensive tackle knows Quinn well from their time together on the Dallas Cowboys. Adding him won't be cheap, especially considering the big investments already made on the defensive line interior.
Marcus Mosher from The 33rd Team believes Odighizuwa's price tag is going to raise eyebrows around the league. The analyst projected the former third-round pick to get $21 million per year if Dallas lets him test the market. He added that considering this isn't a deep free-agent class for the position, the market is only going to drive up the price.
He is on the smaller side for a defensive tackle, but teams prioritizing pass-rush ability and durability will fall in love with [Osa] Odighizuwa this offseason. Look for Odighizuwa to earn a contract worth at least $20 million per season. Given the lack of depth at defensive tackle in free agency, it wouldn't be a surprise if he earned significantly more. We saw Christian Wilkins sign a deal worth upwards of $27 million last year, and Odihizuwa is younger and far more durable. There could be some sticker shock when his deal is announced early in free agency.Marcus Mosher
Odighizuwa is a talented player familiar with the coaching staff, so it makes sense. However, this is dependent on Jonathan Allen's future with the franchise when it's all said and done.
Allen has no more guaranteed money and one year remaining on his deal. The Commanders could agree to a restructuring despite his regression over the last two seasons. If those in power decide that Odighizuwa would be an upgrade, trading or releasing the team leader would offset most of the cost.
The Commanders save $16.47 million by letting Allen go in some capacity. Odighizuwa's rumored price tag probably dictates it's one or the other, so it'll be interesting to see what Peters decides.
There can be no sentiment attached. Allen's meant a considerable amount to the football team and community during his time in Washington. That won't stop Peters from cutting the cord if he believes it's the right thing to do.
Watch this space…
