It might have taken a bit, but the Washington Commanders ended up putting together a strong free agency class.
From upgrading the pass rush with Odafe Oweh to providing Jayden Daniels with more weapons, the Commanders added nine players who many national analysts believe have help raise the roster's floor for the 2026 season. Here's how media members have graded each of the newest additions to the Burgundy & Gold.
Check out the top photos of future Washington Commanders Odafe Oweh.
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) works out during an NFL football practice, Thursday, June 6, 2024, in Owings Mills, Md. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Odafe Oweh (98) sacks Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) during an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Peter Aiken)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) looks on between plays during the first half of an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Odafe Oweh (98) rushes Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (not shown) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Doug Murray)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) in action during the second quarter of an NFL preseason football game against the New Orleans Saints Saturday, Aug. 14, 2021, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) takes to the field before an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) in action during the first half of an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith (7) gets sacked by Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 4, 2023, in Baltimore, MD. (AP Photo/Peter Joneleit)
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Jake Browning (6) looks to pass against Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) in the second half of an NFL football in Baltimore, Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) takes to the field before an NFL football game against the Houston Texans, Sunday, October 5, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
Denver Broncos quarterback Drew Lock (3) is tackled by Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh pursues during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) in action during the first half of an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh in action against Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) takes to the field before an NFL football game against the Cleveland Browns, Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Odafe Oweh (98) runs during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 8, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong)
FILE — Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes makes a pass attempt as he is tackled by Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh during the second half of an NFL football game Sept. 19, 2021, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez, File)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) runs during an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams, Sunday, December 10, 2023 in Baltimore, Md. (AP Photo/Daniel Kucin Jr.)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) looks to make a play during an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, November 26, 2023 in Inglewood, California. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) looks on between plays during the second half of an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders, Sunday, Sep. 15, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) celebrates a time out taken by the Detroit Lions during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Sept. 22, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
Baltimore Ravens outside linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) is seen during an NFL football game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Indianapolis Colts on Monday, Oct. 11, 2021, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Larry French)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) in action during the second half of an NFL football game \against the Los Angeles Rams, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2023, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) rushes the passer during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Peter Joneleit)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) defends during an NFL football game against the New York Giants Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Odafe Oweh (98) walks the sideline before an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Gary McCullough)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh during an NFL football practice, Tuesday, Aug. 10, 2021 in Owings Mills, Md.(AP Photo/Gail Burton)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) runs during an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Sept. 18, 2022 in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Daniel Kucin Jr.)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) walks on the field during an NFL football practice, Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024, in Owings Mills, Md. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
Baltimore Ravens outside linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) runs on the field during the first half of an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 21, 2021, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Kamil Krzaczynski)
Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson (3) gets sacked by Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99), Baltimore Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith (18), and Baltimore Ravens linebacker Jason Pierre-Paul (4), in the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2022, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) takes down Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) for a strip sack during an NFL football game, Sunday, November 12, 2023 in Baltimore, Maryland. (AP Photo/Daniel Kucin Jr.)
Baltimore Ravens' Odafe Oweh during an NFL football practice, Tuesday, Aug. 17, 2021, in Owings Mills, Md.(AP Photo/Gail Burton)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) in action during the first half of an NFL football game against the Cleveland Browns, Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
Baltimore Ravens outside linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) in action during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers, Sunday, Oct. 17, 2021, in Baltimore, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) walks on the field before the start of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Thursday Nov. 11, 2021, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Doug Murray)
Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff, right, takes a hit from Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh after throwing a pass during the first half of an NFL football game Monday, Sept. 22, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) celebrates with teammates after recovering a Kansas City Chiefs fumble in the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 19, 2021, in Baltimore. Baltimore won 36-35. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) looks on between plays during the second quarter of an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Odafe Oweh (98) reacts during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game against the New England Patriots, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Greg M. Cooper)
New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye, center, is sacked by Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Odafe Oweh (98) and defensive tackle Justin Eboigbe (92) in the first half of an NFL wild-card playoff football game in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye is hit by Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Odafe Oweh (98) and linebacker Khalil Mack (52) after throwing an incomplete pass in the second half of an NFL wild-card playoff football game in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty)
Odafe Oweh
ESPN: B
The Commanders needed to add pass rush juice at edge. And they ideally needed to do it with a player in his prime, rather than an aging veteran like Von Miller a year ago. Oweh checks both boxes. The former Ravens and Chargers edge rusher was one of the top free agents in this year's class -- and he got paid like it.
Washington coach Dan Quinn and GM Adam Peters both emphasized getting younger, faster and more athletic after fielding the oldest roster in the NFL in 2025. Consider Odafe Oweh, 27, a major step in that regard. After an up-and-down stint in Baltimore, Oweh erupted for 7.5 sacks in 12 games with the Chargers this season (plus three sacks and two forced fumbles in a wild-card loss to the Patriots).
Oweh has spent most of his career as a stand-up outside linebacker. It will be interesting to see how Commanders head coach Dan Quinn deploys him given his penchant for four-man fronts.
Check out the top photos of future Washington Commander K'Lavon Chaisson.
New England Patriots linebacker K'lavon Chaisson (44) celebrates a sack of Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) in the first half of an NFL wild-card playoff football game in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
New England Patriots linebacker K'Lavon Chaisson (44) rushes during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Los Angeles Chargers, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Greg M. Cooper)
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) makes a pass while pressured by New England Patriots linebacker K'Lavon Chaisson (44) during the first half of an NFL divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Greg M. Cooper)
New England Patriots linebacker K'lavon Chaisson, right, hits Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud during the first half of an NFL divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty)
New England Patriots linebacker K'lavon Chaisson, left, brings down Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud, right, in the first half of an NFL divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)
New England Patriots linebacker K'Lavon Chaisson (44) reacts after a sack during the second half of an NFL divisional playoff football game against the Houston Texans, Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Greg M. Cooper)
New England Patriots linebacker K'lavon Chaisson, left, hits Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud during the first half of an NFL divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)
New England Patriots linebacker K'Lavon Chaisson (44) reacts after a sack during the second half of an NFL divisional playoff football game against the Houston Texans, Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Greg M. Cooper)
New England Patriots linebacker K'Lavon Chaisson (44) rushes during the second half of an NFL divisional playoff football game against the Houston Texans, Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Greg M. Cooper)
Denver Broncos quarterback Jarrett Stidham (8) runs against New England Patriots linebacker K'lavon Chaisson (44) during the first half of an NFL football game Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026, in Denver. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
New England Patriots linebacker K'lavon Chaisson (44) celebrates the win against the Denver Broncos during the AFC Championship NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026 in Denver. (AP Photo/Bart Young)
New England Patriots linebacker K'lavon Chaisson, left, has his arm taped during an NFL football practice, Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)
New England Patriots linebacker K'lavon Chaisson warms up before an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026, in Denver. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
New England Patriots linebacker K'lavon Chaisson warms up before an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026, in Denver. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
New England Patriots linebacker K'lavon Chaisson celebrates with the trophy after the AFC Championship NFL football game between the Denver Broncos and the New England Patriots, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026, in Denver. (AP Photo/John Locher)
New England Patriots linebacker K'lavon Chaisson (44) warms up during an NFL football practice, Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)
New England Patriots linebacker K'lavon Chaisson, left, has his arm taped during an NFL football practice, Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)
New England Patriots linebacker K'lavon Chaisson walks on the field during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026, in Denver. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
New England Patriots K'Lavon Chaisson (44) poses for a portrait on Opening Night ahead of the Super Bowl 60 football game, Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, in San Jose, CA. (Maddie Knight/AP Content Services for the NFL)
New England Patriots K'Lavon Chaisson (44) poses for a portrait on Opening Night ahead of the Super Bowl 60 football game, Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, in San Jose, CA. (Maddie Knight/AP Content Services for the NFL)
New England Patriots K'Lavon Chaisson (44) poses for a portrait on Opening Night ahead of the Super Bowl 60 football game, Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, in San Jose, CA. (Maddie Knight/AP Content Services for the NFL)
New England Patriots linebacker K'Lavon Chaisson (44), head coach Mike Vrabel, middle, and wide receiver Mack Hollins (13) stand during the national anthem before the NFL Super Bowl 60 football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026, in Santa Clara, Calif. (AP Photo/Doug Benc)
New England Patriots linebacker K'lavon Chaisson talks to the media during a news conference Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026, in Santa Clara, Calif., ahead of the Super Bowl 60 NFL football game between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
New England Patriots linebacker K'lavon Chaisson talks to the media during a news conference Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026, in Santa Clara, Calif., ahead of the Super Bowl 60 NFL football game between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
Seattle Seahawks tight end AJ Barner (88) catches a pass as New England Patriots linebacker K'lavon Chaisson (44) and safety Craig Woodson, right, defend during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl 60 football game, Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026, in Santa Clara, Calif. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold (14) escapes a tackle attempt by New England Patriots linebacker K'lavon Chaisson, right, during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl 60 football game, Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026, in Santa Clara, Calif. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
New England Patriots linebacker K'lavon Chaisson (44) sacks Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold (14) during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl 60 football game, Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026, in Santa Clara, Calif. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
New England Patriots linebacker K'lavon Chaisson (44) hits Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold (14) during the NFL Super Bowl 60 football game, Sunday, February 8, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif. (Scot Tucker/AP Content Services for the NFL)
New England Patriots linebacker K'Lavon Chaisson (44) reacts to a call during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl 60 football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026, in Santa Clara, Calif. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New England Patriots linebacker K'Lavon Chaisson (44) walks on the field before the NFL Super Bowl 60 football game, Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026, in Santa Clara, Calif. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New England Patriots linebacker K'Lavon Chaisson (44) walks on the field before the NFL Super Bowl 60 football game, Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026, in Santa Clara, Calif. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
FILE -New England Patriots linebacker K'Lavon Chaisson (44) looks to get past Seattle Seahawks offensive tackle Charles Cross (67) during the NFL Super Bowl 60 football game, Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026, in Santa Clara, Calif. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano, File)
K'Lavon Chaisson
ESPN: B+
After managing only 10 total sacks over the first five seasons of his career, Chaisson broke out with 7.5 sacks last season with the Patriots. His pass rush win rate at edge was in the 61st percentile, while his pressure rate was a bit lower (39th percentile). He doesn't offer that much in the run game, so the Commanders are betting that his 2025 pass-rush performance continues.
Chaisson resurrected his career with the New England Patriots. The 2020 first-round pick of the Jacksonville Jaguars was previously viewed as a bust. Chaisson needed time to mature and develop after being drafted at just 20 years old.
He isn't the best run-stopper, as Schulte mentioned above, but he can still play all three downs. I had to dock him a point for his run-stopping ability, but he still gets an A- from me because of the reasons I listed.
Amik Robertson
Robertson spent four years with the Raiders before joining the Lions for 2024 and '25, starting 35 games over that span and nabbing five interceptions. With Washington, the 183-pound corner will have a starting role alongside third-year man Mike Sanristil, especially with the release of veteran Marshon Lattimore. Last season, Robertson played 76% of the defensive snaps for Detroit.
In watching Robertson, there's a lot to like. He is feisty and competitive, and embodies what head coach Dan Quinn always preaches. However, he's small, giving Washington two smaller cornerbacks. His size hasn't proven to be a detriment through six NFL seasons, as he bounces back and forth between the slot and outside. Robertson has had success against the Vikings' Justin Jefferson. He's a good player.
Tim Settle
Settle is outstanding against the run and can push the pocket. This is a feel-good story, seeing Settle return. But it's more than that. Settle is a good football player. This is a move not many will talk about, as it will fly under the radar, but, overall, a good investment by the Commanders.
Check out the top photos of future Washington Commander Leo Chenal.
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) lines up for the snap during an NFL football game against the Houston Texans on Sunday, December 18, 2022, in Houston. (AP Photo/Matt Patterson)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) and long snapper James Winchester (41) stand for the national anthem before a preseason NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Saturday, Aug. 10, 2024, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) in action during an NFL football game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Miami Dolphins at Deutsche Bank Park Stadium in Frankfurt, Germany, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023. The Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Miami Dolphins 21-14. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New Orleans Saints tight end Foster Moreau (87) catches a pass for a touchdown against Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) during an NFL football game Monday, Oct. 7, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) against the Denver Broncos of an NFL football game Sunday October 29, 2023, in Denver. (AP Photo/Bart Young)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) drops into coverage against the San Francisco 49ers during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal during an NFL football game against Philadelphia Eagles Monday, Nov. 20, 2023 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal takes part in drills during the NFL football team's mandatory minicamp Tuesday, June 14, 2022, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) against the Denver Broncos of an NFL football game Sunday October 29, 2023, in Denver. (AP Photo/Bart Young)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) follows a play during the first half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) celebrates after sacking Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 8, 2023, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal is seen during the first half of an NFL preseason football against the Chicago Bears game Friday, Aug. 22, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)
Ohio State wide receiver Binjimen Victor (9) runs past Wisconsin linebacker Leo Chenal (45) during the second half of the Big Ten championship NCAA college football game Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/AJ Mast)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) in action during an NFL football game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Miami Dolphins at Deutsche Bank Park Stadium in Frankfurt, Germany, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023. The Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Miami Dolphins 21-14. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley (26) is tackled by Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Jaylen Watson, left, and Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal, right, during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl 59 football game, Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal celebrates a play aagainst the Baltimore Ravens during the second half an NFL football game, Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024 in Kansas City, Mo. The Chiefs defeated the Ravens by a score of 27-20. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) rushes across the line of scrimmage during an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Peter Aiken)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) tackles Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III (9) during the first half of an NFL football game, Saturday, Dec. 24, 2022 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) celebrates after a sack during the first half of an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings, Sunday, Oct. 8, 2023, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Bruce Kluckhohn)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) rushes on defense during an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Peter Aiken)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) gets set on defense during an NFL pre-season football game against the Green Bay Packers Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Peter Aiken)
Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Greg Dortch (83) is tackled by Kansas City Chiefs safety Chamarri Conner (27) and linebacker Leo Chenal (54) during the first half of an NFL preseason football game, Saturday, Aug. 19, 2023, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal participates in a drill during NFL football training camp Sunday, Aug. 7, 2022, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) in action during an NFL football game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Miami Dolphins at Deutsche Bank Park Stadium in Frankfurt, Germany, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023. The Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Miami Dolphins 21-14. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal comes onto the field during introductions before an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Monday, Nov. 20, 2023 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)
Kansas City Chiefs' Leo Chenal (54) plays against the against the Arizona Cardinals during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 11, 2022, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Matt York)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) rushes against the Washington Commanders during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 27, 2025 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) runs into defensive position during an NFL football game against the Houston Texans Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Peter Aiken)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) is greeted by teammates during introductions before the first half of an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans, Sunday, Nov. 6, 2022 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)
Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) is chased by Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 13, 2022 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)
Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Greg Dortch (83) gets stopped just short of the endzone by Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) and Chiefs cornerback Dicaprio Bootle (30) during the second half of an NFL preseason football game Saturday, Aug. 19, 2023, in Glendale, Ariz. The Chiefs won 38-10. AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
Philadelphia Eagles tight end Dallas Goedert (88) makes the catch against Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl 57 football game, Sunday, Feb. 12, 2023, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal comes onto the field during introductions before an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Monday, Nov. 20, 2023 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)
Detroit Lions wide receiver Kaden Davis, right, is tackled by Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal, left, during the first half of an NFL football game, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) runs into defensive position during an NFL football game against the Houston Texans Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Peter Aiken)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) against the Las Vegas Raiders during the first half of an NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 7, 2023, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Kansas City Chiefs long snapper James Winchester (41) congratulates Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) after a special teams punt return during the first half of an NFL wild-card playoff football game against the Miami Dolphins, Saturday, Jan. 13, 2024 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)
San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) evades Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) makes an interception off the hands of Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 27, 2025 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)
Leo Chenal
CBS Sports: B+
Leo Chenal, who will be just 26-years-old in October, is a much-needed acquisition for a Washington Commanders squad that fielded the NFL's oldest roster in 2025. Pro Football Focus assigned Chenal an 86.3 defensive grade since he entered the NFL as a third-round pick of the Kansas City Chiefs in 2022, which is the fifth-best among linebackers the last four seasons.
Between Oweh, K'Lavon Chaisson and Chenal, Washingto's upfield defense vs. run and pass has gotten a whole lot better for 2026.
Chig Okonkwo
While tight end wasn't an urgent need, it was a need. Zach Ertz turns 36 next season, is a free agent and coming off an ACL tear. Ben Sinnott and John Bates are back, but neither has proven to be a top receiving option. Both will be heavily involved in the offense, but Okonkwo is now Washington's top tight end. He can work the middle of the field, is explosive after the catch and will run over defenders.
AtoZ Sports: A-
He isn't the best blocker, so that will dock him slightly on my grade, but that also isn't his role. The Commanders have Ben Sinnott and Jon Bates for the dirty work at the line of scrimmage, and Okonkwo will stretch the field and give Daniels a new target for explosive plays. I love the signing; this was my guy.
Check out the top photos of future Washington Commander Nick Cross.
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) during an NFL football game against the Houston Texans, Sunday, Sep. 17, 2023, in Houston. (AP Photo/Tyler Kaufman)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) calls out a signal during an NFL football game against the Houston Texans, Saturday, Jan. 6, 2024, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Zach Bolinger)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) brings down Arizona Cardinals running back Michael Carter (22) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Aug. 16, 2024, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Zach Bolinger)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross in action during the first half of an preseason NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) reacts after intercepting a pass against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) celebrates his interception during an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers, Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) intercepts a pass intended for Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (14) during an NFL football game, Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Zach Bolinger)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) runs off the field during an NFL football game against the New York Jets Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Colts won 28-27. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) runs a drill during practice at the NFL football team's training camp in Westfield, Ind., Thursday, July 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) intercepts a pass intended for Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (14) during the first half of an NFL football game in Indianapolis Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) lines up on defense during an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Saturday, Aug. 20, 2022, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Zach Bolinger)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) lines up on defense during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos, Sunday, Aug. 11, 2024, in Indianapolis. The Broncos defeated the Colts 34-30. (AP Photo/Zach Bolinger)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) intercepts a pass in front of Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Quentin Johnston (1) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) intercepts a pass intended for Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (14) during the first half of an NFL football game in Indianapolis Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Cordarrelle Patterson, front left, carries the ball with Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) defending during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) runs to the ball during an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Colts 36-19. (AP Photo/Gary McCullough)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) lines up on defense during an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Saturday, Aug. 20, 2022, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Zach Bolinger)
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle (85) catches a pass in the endzone against Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) during an NFL football game, Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Zach Bolinger)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) lines up before the snap during an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Saturday, Aug. 19, 2023, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Zach Bolinger)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross warms up before an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross in action before an NFL football game, Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) looks to the sidelines during an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Zach Bolinger)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) lines up on defense during an NFL football game against the Houston Texans, Saturday, Jan. 6, 2024, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Zach Bolinger)
Houston Texans quarterback Davis Mills (10) looks to pass as Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) and teammate linebacker E.J. Speed (45) defend during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 11, 2022, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) walks off the field following an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans, Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Stew Milne)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross comes onto the field during introductions before an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross gives instructions to a teammate during the first half of a preseason NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)
Miami Dolphins running back Raheem Mostert (31) attempts to break a tackle from Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024 in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) makes a catch during practice at the NFL football team's training camp in Westfield, Ind., Thursday, July 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) tackles Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Tyler Johnson (18) during an NFL football game, Saturday, Aug. 27, 2022, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Zach Bolinger)
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Jakobi Meyers (3) makes a catch over Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) tackles Houston Texans' Woody Marks (27) during an NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) in action during the first half of an preseason NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (14) is tackled by Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross, back right, after making a catch during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) runs across the field during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Zach Bolinger)
Indianapolis Colts' Nick Cross runs a drill during a practice at the NFL football team's training facility, Wednesday, June 8, 2022, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)
Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross (20) lines up on defense during an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024, in Indianapolis. The Lions defeated the Colts 24-6. (AP Photo/Zach Bolinger)
Nick Cross
Another terrific move. We didn't hear enough about how much Washington needed to add a safety. Cross helps the Commanders get younger and faster. He's only 24 and ran a 4.3 40-yard dash at the NFL combine in 2022. He also plays fast. Cross is at his best attacking downhill. He's relatively cheap (2 years, $14 million) with plenty of upside. Washington's tackling will certainly be much better when Cross is on the field in 2026.
CBS Sports: B+
The Washington Commanders were the NFL's sixth-worst scoring defense (26.5 points per game allowed) and the league's worst total defense (384.3 total yards per game allowed). Any and all help is appreciated in Washington. According to Next Gen Stats, safety Nick Cross tied for the most run stops resulting in an unsuccessful play at the safety position in 2025 with 33. That should help the Commanders' 30th-ranked run defense (141.8 rushing yards per game). The value on the contract is solid here as well for a player who turns 25 in September.
Charles Omenihu
Omenihu played with the Chiefs the past three seasons and helped them win the Super Bowl two years ago. The seven-year veteran has 23 career sacks and made 95 total game appearances. He'll now join a Washington defense that recently added Odafe Oweh, Tim Settle Jr., K'Lavon Chaisson and Nick Cross.
Washington's defense gave up the third-most rushing yards and finished 26th in pressure rate (19.6 percent) last season. Omenihu will join newly added edge-rushers K'Lavon Chaisson and Odafe Oweh in strengthening a below-average front line.
Rachaad White
The Commanders make a smart move for a versatile complementary back and probably aren't done at the position (Jeremiyah Love?).
The Commanders needed another RB, and they got a high-end producer in White, who just turned 27 years old. He's on a one-year prove-it deal, so there's no risk, and he will be motivated as ever. White is coming off a career-best season in 2025 with zero fumbles on 132 carries and zero drops on 42 targets in the passing game.
