NFL free agency has begun, and we're keeping track of every major signing, trade and release of the 2025 offseason, with analysis from our NFL Nation reporters and grades from our experts. The new league year began March 12 at 4 p.m. ET, when free agent signings could become official. The first round of the 2025 NFL draft begins April 24 on ESPN.
Here's a breakdown of every 2025 NFL free agent signing by the Washington Commanders and how each will impact the upcoming season:
Jeremy McNichols, RB
The Commanders are bringing back the veteran on a one-year deal.
What it means: McNichols served as a valuable third back behind Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler last season. Washington was his 10th franchise, but he stuck around because of his effort and contributions. It's hard to imagine Washington not looking for another back in the draft; the Commanders want more dynamic play. But McNichols provides them someone who can pick up blitzes as well as be an effective rusher (261 yards; 4.7 per carry). He was solid in the red zone as well (12 carries, 38 yards, three touchdowns).
What's the risk: None. McNichols provided good relief, and Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury showed he knew how to use him -- and when. The risk would be if Washington failed to select another running back in a draft deep with them. They need someone who can provide more dynamic play if possible. But they know what they have in McNichols, and he fits the mindset of this coaching staff.
Will Harris, S
Harris, who played primarily cornerback for the Saints in 2024, comes to Washington on a two-year deal.
What it means: Jeremy Chinn, who was a hybrid safety/linebacker for Washington last season, left via free agency for the Raiders. Harris provides an experienced and versatile player as a replacement. The Commanders also have Quan Martin and Percy Butler and also Tyler Owens, who was an undrafted free agent last spring. But they needed another experienced, versatile player. Harris has played safety, in the nickel and outside corner.
What's the risk: Washington's coaches praised Chinn quite often last season -- for his communication skills and physical play. Harris' deal (worth up to $10 million) is less than Chinn received (two years and up to $16 million) from Las Vegas. Harris has to play well enough not to regret allowing Chinn to walk.
Javon Kinlaw, DT
The former San Francisco 49ers and New York Jets lineman is joining Washington on a three-year deal worth $45 million, with $30 million guaranteed.
What it means: Washington needed someone to bolster the run defense inside, adding to a rotation that includes Daron Payne and Jer'Zhan Newton. Kinlaw can be an effective run defender on early downs. Washington ranked 28th in rushing yards per carry and 30th in rushing yards per game. The Commanders needed to bolster the inside after releasing veteran Jonathan Allen. Kinlaw is only 27, so just entering his prime.
What's the risk: The contract details always matter, so until those are known, it's hard to fully gauge the risk. It averages $15 million per year, which is a lot for what he's done -- but that perception can change after the true value is assessed. But he does fill a need to get bigger inside and general manager Adam Peters knows him from their four years together in San Francisco. He's betting that Kinlaw is ascending. He was considered inconsistent against the run in New York. That will have to change in Washington to make this signing worthwhile.
Bobby Wagner, LB
Wagner is returning to the Commanders on a one-year deal.
What it means: Wagner provided exactly what the Commanders needed last season: leadership and quality play in the middle of the defense. Wagner isn't what he used to be, but he remains effective because of his knowledge and quick thinking. He finished with more than 100 tackles for a 13th consecutive season and was named second-team All-Pro and earned a 10th Pro Bowl berth. He was a respected voice in the locker room and developed a strong bond with quarterback Jayden Daniels.
What's the risk: Wagner turns 35 in June and, at some point, age will catch up with every player -- even one considered a future Hall of Famer. He doesn't run like he used to but uses smarts to compensate. Does Washington have a backup plan? For now, the plan is to start Wagner and continue developing Jordan Magee, a fifth-round pick in 2024, as an eventual replacement. But, for now, the benefits outweigh any risk with Wagner.
Zach Ertz, TE
Ertz is returning to Washington on a one-year deal.
What it means: Daniels gets his security blanket back. After two seasons ended by injury in Arizona, Ertz played all 17 games and caught 66 passes for 654 yards and seven touchdowns. All of his scores came on 13 red zone receptions. He also caught a combined 17 passes on third and fourth down. Ertz developed a strong relationship with Daniels because of how often the two communicated throughout practice and beyond.
What's the risk: None. It's a one-year deal and Ertz produced last season. But he will turn 35 this season and it's hard to maintain a certain level of performance. The risk, though, was greater if they didn't re-sign him, as Ben Sinnott, a second-round pick last season, did not yet show enough signs of growth to replace him. Washington needed Ertz back.
John Bates, TE
Bates is returning to the Commanders on a three-year deal.
What it means: Bates is not a dynamic tight end and won't wow anyone with his pass-catching. He caught 61 passes in his first four seasons, with only two scores. And he's coming off an eight-catch season in 2024. But he was a priority for Washington because of his unique skillset. The Commanders consider him one of the best true blocking tight ends in the NFL, someone who can handle a defensive end in a pass rush. He was necessary to retain.
What's the risk: None. Washington needed Bates back, but what they also need is another young tight end who develops -- whether it's Sinnott or someone else. Sinnott could become a quality blocker especially out of the backfield. But the risk with Bates would have been letting him leave with no true replacement.
Tress Way, P
Way is returning to the Commanders on a one-year deal.
What it means: Washington won't have to worry about this position for at least another year. Way has solidified the position since joining the organization in 2014. Way averaged 46.9 yards per punt last season, which is also his career average. He punted only 50 times -- and went two games in a row without one. That marked the second fewest in his career; his low is 49 set in 2016 when they played 16 games.
What's the risk: None. Way turns 35 next month so it's uncertain how long he'll want to continue playing. But there's no need to find a successor now. He's still a very good punter.
Marcus Mariota, QB
Mariota is returning to the Commanders on a one-year deal.
What it means: Daniels gets back a valuable mentor. It also means Mariota could not find another place where he could compete for the starting job. That was his stated desire. But, short of that, a return was at or near the top of his list. Mariota was terrific in two games replacing an injured Daniels. In wins over Carolina and Dallas -- which covered five quarters -- Mariota was a combined 33-for-41 for 366 yards and four touchdowns and scored another one rushing.
What's the risk: None. Mariota proved his worth on and off the field. He liked Kliff Kingsbury's offense and handled the role of mentoring Daniels quite well. It helps how much Daniels likes learning from veterans, but they meshed well. Breaking up that group would have been the risk. It's a good quarterback room.
Eddie Goldman, DT
The veteran comes over from the Atlanta Falcons on a one-year deal.
What it means: Washington needed size inside and added more by landing Goldman. The Commanders released tackle Jonathan Allen so needed more depth to rotate with Daron Payne and Jer'Zhan Newton. Goldman was a terrific run stopper early in his Bears career; Washington ranked 28th in rushing yards allowed per carry so it needs help. The Commanders also signed defensive lineman Javon Kinlaw.
What's the risk: Minimal. Washington needed help inside, and it's only a one-year deal. The Commanders need more youth along the front, and that quest should not be abandoned after this signing. They need Goldman to be the run stopper he was earlier in his career. If they want to beat Philadelphia, the run defense must improve.
Jonathan Jones, CB
The former Patriot comes over from New England on a one-year deal.
What it means: Washington needed more corner help to pair with Marshon Lattimore and Mike Sainristil. Dan Quinn typically valued bigger corners in the past but both Jones and Sainristil are 5-foot-9. However, both offer versatility as each has played inside and outside. Both are considered best in the slot, but this does provide more options. Jones also dropped to safety in some sets for New England.
What's the risk: None. It's a one-year deal so Washington is not tied long-term and Jones was considered a strong leader with the Patriots. Washington needed another leader in the secondary. The risk would be if the Commanders stopped looking for corner help. They lack depth and could use another big, young corner from the draft.
Deatrich Wise, DE
Wise joins from New England on a one-year deal worth $5 million.
What it means: Washington needed defensive end depth and someone who can play the run. Wise has some pass-rush ability, but his ability to play with power should help a group that ranked 30th vs. the run in 2024. He had 34 career sacks in eight seasons with New England. But he also was a three-time captain in New England and can add strong leadership to his group as well as the entire defense.
What's the risk: Minimal. The deal is only for $5 million, so he's not being paid like a starter. He also offers enough to help. The risk would be if Washington does not draft someone at this position. They have no young ends who project as starters. Washington needs young defensive talent to develop, but Wise won't get in the way of that and can provide help along the way.
K.J. Osborn, WR
Osborn returns to Washington on a one-year deal.
What it means: Washington needs more depth at receiver and wants to see more of Osborn after claiming him on waivers from New England in December. Osborn played in only one game after joining Washington. But he provides stronger camp competition if nothing else. Osborn has 165 career receptions and is one year removed from a 48-catch season with Minnesota.
What's the risk: Minimal. Osborn only signed a one-year deal. He was a good possession receiver for his final three years in Minnesota and he's only 27. The Commanders still have more work to do at the position with Olamide Zaccheaus still unsigned. Because they now only have five draft picks they can't count on finding a good young talent in late April.
Michael Deiter, C
Deiter returns to the Commanders on a one-year deal.
What it means: Depth. Deiter started two games for Washington in place of center Tyler Biadasz and played some emergency snaps at guard last season. Deiter has made 35 starts in six seasons so he provides experienced depth. But that's all he should be at this stage.
What's the risk: Minimal. Deiter struggled at times in his starts, as did the run game overall. Not all of that was on him. But if Biadasz has to miss time again the Commanders at least have an experienced backup to help protect Daniels. It would be nice to have a young player to develop but having an experienced reserve helps a team trying to go far in the playoffs.
Noah Brown, WR
Brown is returning to the team on a one-year deal.
What it means: Brown provides quality depth and a potential starter for the Commanders. He did a nice job for them after joining the team as a waiver claim the week before the season opener. In 11 games, he caught 35 passes with one touchdown. He was on pace to set a career-best in catches (he ended up eight shy) before injuring his kidney. He has good size at 6-foot-2 and 225 pounds -- something Washington needed -- and plays physical. He's a good third option along with Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel.
What's the risk: None. The deal is only worth up to $4.5 million. Despite his production Brown again finished on injured reserve and has missed a combined 13 games the past two seasons. The Commanders could add another young outside receiver as insurance. But as long as Brown stays healthy he should deliver for them again.
Sheldon Day, DT
Day returns to Washington on a one-year deal.
What it means: Depth. Day was part of Washington's defensive line rotation last season as a fourth tackle. He finished with a career-high 24 tackles and 12 solo tackles. Washington also has added defensive tackle Goldman -- who is at least 30 pounds heavier so would play a different role. The Commanders starters are expected to be Daron Payne and Newton. They also signed Kinlaw, who can play inside but might also play some outside. At 6-foot-1, Day is a little shorter than most inside but can use his quickness to help against the run.
What's the risk: None. He's not expensive, nor is he guaranteed a roster spot. Day has played with five other franchises, so he is used to earning a spot, and this summer will be no different.
Trent Scott, OT
Scott returns to Washington on a one-year deal.
What it means: Depth. Scott appeared in all 17 regular-season games last season, including starting in the NFC Championship Game versus Philadelphia at right guard after Sam Cosmi tore an ACL the previous week. Scott provides veteran insurance as a backup tackle, especially after Cornelius Lucas left via free agency. Scott is best used as a tackle, though he showed he could play guard in an emergency. Cosmi will likely be sidelined at the start of the season because of his knee, so Washington needs options to start there until he returns.
What's the risk: Minimal. It's a one-year deal and Scott likely would be a reserve if he makes the roster. But he does provide experience with 23 starts and 88 games played in seven seasons. The Commanders would also be wise to add some young linemen to develop as backups.
Noah Igbinoghene, CB
The cornerback returns to Washington on a one-year deal.
What it means: Veteran depth. Igbinoghene did a nice job for Washington as a slot corner last season. His play allowed Washington to move Sainristil outside, where he needed to play after others struggled. The Commanders signed Jonathan Jones in free agency and he, too, can play inside or outside. Igbinoghene, a first-round pick by Miami in the 2020 draft, probably had his most consistent season but at this point would appear to be the fourth corner -- though that is clearly not decided yet.
What's the risk: None. He played well enough to warrant a return and it's only for one year. However, the risk will be if Washington does not add another young corner through the draft. That might be tough with only five picks (for now). Three of their top four corners are 5-foot-10 or shorter, so it would be nice to add someone with more size -- especially in case Lattimore battles injuries. He's the only one of that foursome above 6-foot.
Nick Bellore, LB
Bellore re-signs with Washington on a two-year deal.
What it means: Special teams help. Bellore was a standout in this area last season, having been signed to the active roster in Week 2. He and Jeremy Reaves give Washington two former Pro Bowl special teams contributors, both of whom set a tone for the younger players. Bellore is not going to play from scrimmage, but he doesn't need to in order to help.
What's the risk: None. Bellore is excellent at what he does on special teams. The Commanders benefitted from his play last season and should do so again this year.
Jacob Martin, DE
Martin moves over from Chicago after signing a one-year deal.
What it means: The Commanders need to find more pass rushers, and Martin can potentially provide help as a reserve. He has 21 career sacks in his first seven seasons, though he is now with his eighth franchise. The Commanders have not yet re-signed edge rusher Dante Fowler Jr. and don't have any young pass rushers to develop. Martin recorded three sacks with Chicago last season. He can also perhaps help provide versatility when the Commanders want to use different fronts. Martin has played as an end in a 4-3 and an outside linebacker in a 3-4.
What's the risk: Washington still needs to find edge rush help. According to a league source, the Commanders were in on Joey Bosa and DeMarcus Lawrence but failed to land either. Signing Martin should not stop them from trying to add more, whether in free agency or the draft. It's a definite area the team needs to add more competition and talent.
Nate Herbig, G
The former Steeler joins Washington on a one-year deal.
What it means: A depth signing, Herbig adds another lineman to compete for a job in training camp. Herbig has experience, having started 30 games in five seasons with Philadelphia, the Jets and Pittsburgh. The Commanders did not have strong depth inside last season and now have Cosmi coming off the torn ACL. Herbig offers size at 6-foot-4, 334 pounds -- he'd be their biggest guard by approximately 15 pounds.
What's the risk: Minimal. It's only a one-year deal and Washington can see if he's worthy of keeping as a backup interior lineman. The Commanders would be wise to add a young backup to develop but their limited number of draft picks next month might make that difficult to achieve.
Clelin Ferrell, DE
Ferrell returns to Washington on a one-year deal.
What it means: More help to stop the run. Ferrell started 10 of the 14 games he played for Washington last season. He won't provide much pass rush -- he posted 3.5 sacks in 2024 -- but he does provide more depth to help against the run for a defense that ranked 30th in rushing yards allowed per game.
What's the risk: None, as long as they're not expecting him to help the pass rush. But that's now how they see him. The Commanders need to find a young edge rusher but adding Ferrell enables them to focus on finding someone in the draft whose primary role will be to impact opposing quarterbacks.
Jalyn Holmes, DE
Holmes returns to the Commanders on a one-year deal.
What it means: Depth. Holmes signed with Washington midway through last season and provided another lineman to rotate and play in bigger line groupings. At times he could slide inside to tackle as well. Quinn likes that versatility. The Commanders badly want to bolster the front and have now either signed or re-signed five defensive linemen. They allowed one to walk in edge rusher Dante Fowler Jr.
What's the risk: None. Holmes will still have to make the final roster but he showed last season that he could provide depth.
Foster Sarell, OT
The former Charger joins Washington on a one-year deal.
What it means: Depth. Washington needed more offensive line competition, especially for a swing tackle. The Commanders do have the veteran Scott, who was a No. 4 tackle last year; and starting right tackle Andrew Wylie might be an option if they move Coleman to his spot. But they needed another young player -- Sarell is 26 -- to compete for a job. Of his 328 offensive snaps the past three years with the Chargers, 290 came at right tackle.
What's the risk: None. Sarell still has to make the team and the Commanders just needed more players to fill out the roster. He does offer some size at 6-foot-6, 322 pounds and that's needed as well. The Commanders would be wise to find more young interior depth to develop via the draft but Sarell does not impact that ability at all.
Michael Gallup, WR
The former Raider is joining the Commanders on a one-year deal.
What it means: More veteran receiver depth. Washington added Samuel and re-signed Brown, but needed more quality depth at the position. Luke McCaffrey saw his play time diminish later in his rookie year and is still developing at the position. So they needed more options alongside McLaurin. Gallup has 266 career receptions and, after a brief one-year retirement, says he's in a much better head space. He provides another receiver who does well making contested catches.
What's the risk: None. Washington doesn't attach itself to many -- if any -- bad contracts. Getting Gallup for a year will provide good insurance. Samuel has been banged up in recent years, though he doesn't miss many games; and Brown has had his share of injuries. Washington needed another veteran. But the Commanders would be helped if McCaffrey developed.