NFL analyst projects Commanders to land top free agent

One year ago, all everyone could talk about was the Washington Commanders trading for a premier edge rusher in an attempt to get over the hump after surprisingly appearing in the NFC Championship Game. Washington was linked to Myles Garrett before he agreed to an extension with the Cleveland Browns.

Once Garrett agreed to remain in Cleveland, the focus turned to Trey Hendrickson of the Cincinnati Bengals. Hendrickson, whose 35 combined sacks led the NFL in 2023 and 2024, had one year remaining on his contract, and the Bengals weren't meeting his asking price. Therefore, any team that needed a pass rusher was linked to Hendrickson, including the Commanders.

It's unknown how interested the Commanders were in trading for Hendrickson. Washington GM Adam Peters was in a deal-making mood last offseason, acquiring wide receiver Deebo Samuel and left tackle Laremy Tunsil in trades. Of course, it's impossible to know of Washington's level of interest in Hendrickson because the Bengals weren't considering moving him.

Now, Hendrickson is an unrestricted free agent and can sign with anyone. Aaron Schatz of ESPN believes Washington should be Hendrickson's next team.

For the No. 1 free agent, we're looking for three things. First, a team with a gaping hole at the edge rusher position. Second, a team with a lot of cap space. Third, a legitimate playoff contender.

The Commanders definitely hit that first qualifier, as three of their top four edges are free agents. They also hit the second qualifier with the sixth-most cap space, per Roster Management System. And you might not think of them as legitimate playoff contenders, but they are only one season removed from appearing in the NFC Championship Game.

I think coach Dan Quinn will need to try his hardest to convince Hendrickson to come in and help improve the struggling Washington pass rush.

It all makes sense. Washington badly needs to address the edge rusher position. But there are concerns. For one, Hendrickson will be 32 in December and wants a lucrative long-term deal. Additionally, Hendrickson dealt with an injury last season that caused him to miss 10 games, limiting him to four sacks.

Do the Commanders really believe they are one player away? As we saw last season, when they finished 5-12, Washington has other needs, too. The good news for Peters is that there are other capable pass rushers in free agency. Sure, none may be as accomplished as Hendrickson, but would be cheaper and younger.

Quarterback Jayden Daniels enters the third season of his rookie contract in 2026, so Peters may want to go all-in this offseason in an effort to take advantage of his rookie deal. Hendrickson would be an all-in move for the Commanders.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: Analyst projects Trey Hendrickson to D.C.