The Washington Commanders are making waves in the 2025 NFL free agency market, locking in key players to bolster their roster for the upcoming season. With a mix of veteran leadership, defensive reinforcements, and offensive stability, the team is setting the stage for a strong campaign under new management.
Commanders Strengthen Defense with Javon Kinlaw Signing
One of the most significant moves this offseason is the addition of defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw. The former San Francisco 49ers and New York Jets lineman has inked a three-year, $45 million deal with $30 million guaranteed.
Why Kinlaw is a Game-Changer for Washington
The Commanders’ run defense ranked 28th in yards per carry allowed and 30th in total rushing yards allowed last season—clearly an area that needed urgent attention. Kinlaw, known for his size and physicality, joins an interior rotation alongside Daron Payne and Jer’Zhan Newton, filling the void left by Jonathan Allen’s departure.
“Washington needed someone to bolster the run defense inside,”
an NFL insider noted.
“Kinlaw is only 27, so he’s just entering his prime.”
Potential Risks and Expectations
Kinlaw’s deal comes with a hefty $15 million per year price tag, raising questions about value vs. production. While he has shown flashes of dominance, consistency remains an area of concern. The good news? New GM Adam Peters is betting on his potential, having worked with Kinlaw during their shared time in San Francisco.
If Kinlaw can shed his inconsistency and improve his run-stopping ability, this signing could be a turning point for Washington’s defensive front.
Bobby Wagner Returns: Leadership & Stability at Linebacker
Veteran linebacker Bobby Wagner is back for another year in Washington after signing a one-year deal.
A Veteran Presence in the Locker Room
At 35 years old, Wagner may not be in his prime, but his football IQ, leadership, and tackling ability remain elite. He finished the 2024 season with over 100 tackles for a record 13th consecutive season, earning second-team All-Pro honors and another Pro Bowl selection.
More than just a playmaker, Wagner was a respected voice in the locker room, forging a strong bond with young quarterback Jayden Daniels.
The Risk Factor
Every player ages differently, but at some point, even legends slow down. Wagner isn’t as fast as he once was, so Washington must have a backup plan. The team is developing Jordan Magee, a fifth-round pick in 2024, as a potential successor. For now, though, Wagner’s experience outweighs any concerns about his age.
“Wagner provided exactly what the Commanders needed last season: leadership and quality play in the middle of the defense,”
a league scout said.
Zach Ertz Re-Signed: Jayden Daniels’ Go-To Target Stays
Washington also secured a one-year deal to bring back veteran tight end Zach Ertz, ensuring quarterback Jayden Daniels has his security blanket for another season.
Why Ertz is Crucial to the Commanders’ Offense
After dealing with injuries in Arizona, Ertz rebounded in 2024, playing all 17 games and tallying 66 catches for 654 yards and 7 touchdowns. His biggest contributions came in clutch situations:
- All seven of his touchdowns came inside the red zone
- 17 receptions on third and fourth down
Ertz’s chemistry with Daniels is undeniable, with their constant communication helping to elevate the young quarterback’s performance.
No Risk, High Reward
The beauty of this deal? There’s no risk involved. It’s a one-year contract, meaning if Ertz regresses due to age (he turns 35 this season), Washington isn’t locked into a long-term commitment.
However, without him, the team would have been forced to rely on Ben Sinnott, a second-round pick from last year who hasn’t yet shown enough development to take over as TE1.
More to Come
The Commanders aren’t done yet in free agency. With gaps still to fill and the 2025 NFL Draft approaching on April 24, expect more moves from Washington’s front office.
Stay tuned as we break down the latest offseason developments, contract details, and how these signings impact the team’s trajectory heading into the new season.