Commanders selected Jayden Daniels with No. 2 pick in the 2024 draft. He greatly impressed everyone in his rookie year with the franchise, taking them to the NFC Championships after 33 years. Now, to make their Super Bowl dreams come true, they need to provide more support to their QB in the 2025 season. And HC Dan Quinn is already in the rebuild mode, trying to finalize the missing pieces before the season begins. They brought in WR Deebo Samuel from the 49ers in a surprise! More trades and additions await.

On March 8, the team announced a major re-signing of TE Zach Ertz, with a 1-year $6.25 million deal up to $9 million with incentives. In 17 games in 2024 (1st with Commanders), he had 66 receptions for 654 receiving yards with 7 TDs. The fans also believe that he is a key weapon for the quarterback.

The TE-QB has often showered praises on each other. In early January, while talking about the Jayden Daniels’ impact, Ertz said, “I compared him to Andrew Luck, which is the ultimate compliment. It was the humility that stood out to me.” That’s sweet.

The Super Bowl LII winner in 2017 as an Eagles player, he was their standout performer in the NFC Championship loss against his previous team. With 11 receptions in 104 receiving yards, he had almost 37% of the team yards (278). So, it’s a strategic move for the Commanders.

It isn’t only about getting players. They also need to manage their cap space wisely. But this time, they parted ways with their seasoned campaigner.

Commanders trade Jayden Daniels’ experienced teammate

The tackle had been a lifelong fan of the Commanders. His wish also came true when he played for them. However, they have also announced a setback by releasing their 8-season veteran DT Jonathan Allen. They tried to trade but couldn’t find any buyers. With this, they will clear $16.47 million in cap space while absorbing a $6 million cap number. 2024 was the last year of his 4-year $72 million contract. So, the team is ready for the challenges ahead.

While Jayden Daniels & co. will miss him. Dan Quinn may have given another opportunity to his previous team, the Dallas Cowboys. The America’s Team needs solid players in their defense. In 8 seasons, the 6′ 3″, 300-pound beast has started in 108 games out of 109 played, with 42 sacks, 401 tackles (241 solo), and 118 QB hits. But injuries plagued the 2024 season.

In the week 6 matchup against the Ravens, he injured his left pectoral muscle. When everyone thought he was out of the season, he made a surprise comeback before week 17. It was a huge relief as the team started in all 3 playoff games. He also had 6 tackles in those games. But his exit was a shocker.

With this, the Commanders have made their plans obvious to the other teams. They want players who can help them win big games. Will these moves pay off? Only time can test.