Insider recommends Commanders to get a multiple-time Pro Bowler to join Jayden Daniels

The Washington Commanders was one of the most pleasant surprises last year in the NFL. Jayden Daniels flourished as a rookie to become a top-tier quarterback. The team was one game away from being in the Super Bowl, however, one thing was a common factor: most of their games were shootouts.

Twelve of the Commanders’ games saw their opponents score 20 or more points, including the three postseason matchups. Hence, even if the offense was firing up at all cylinders, the defense was getting lit up most of the times.

That is why the team needs a strong, defensive presence, especially as a pass rusher. Reporter Matt Holder, from Bleacher Report, stated that Za’Darius Smith, a three-time Pro Bowler, who last played on the Detroit Lions, should be in the Commanders shortlist.

“For the last decade, all Za’Darius Smith has done is be a productive pass-rusher with five different teams,” Holder said. “He’s racked up 69 career sacks in 140 games, including nine with the Cleveland Browns and Detroit Lions in 2024.”

Za’Darius Smith #99 of the Detroit Lions while playing the Minnesota Vikings at Ford Field on January 05, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

Za’Darius Smith is perennially underrated

You’re thinking “underrated? he’s been to the Pro Bowl three times?” However, he has developed into a top-tier rusher yet no one puts him there. He is a great talent but still has been shipped around the NFL, which is borderline bizarre. Smith haven’t received the respect he deserves.

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The Commanders lost Dante Fowler Jr. during free agency and that was a double-digit sack player. Their starting pass rushers now are Dorance Armstrong and Clelin Ferrell. Not good. Smith would be a leader and a very productive player for Washington.

Washington’s offseason has been focused on the trenches

While some teams look for blockbuster signings, Washington has mainly focused on the line of scrimmage. The only ‘flashy’ signing is Deebo Samuel, coming from the 49ers.

Offensively, they brought left tackle Lauremy Tunsil and right guard, Sam Cosmi. They also drafted Josh Conerly Jr. with their first-round pick. Defensively, they brought defensive linemen like Jacob Martin, Javon Kinlaw and Deatrich Wise.

The secondary saw them bring Jonathan Jones, Will Harris and draft Trey Amos in the second round. Head coach Dan Quinn’s specialty is defense, so he needs to bring the unit to a better form than last year.