Commanders Aim to Retain Veteran Offensive Lineman

Andrew Wylie's versatility makes him a valuable depth piece for Washington's offensive line.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The Washington Commanders are considering re-signing veteran offensive lineman Andrew Wylie, who played a backup role in 2025 after starting games in his first two seasons with the team. Wylie's ability to play both guard and tackle positions makes him a valuable depth piece, especially with the Commanders' starting right guard Sam Cosmi recovering from an ACL injury.

Why it matters

Retaining Wylie would provide the Commanders with experienced offensive line depth as they look to build on their 2025 playoff appearance. His versatility allows the team to have flexibility in managing injuries and rotations along the offensive front.

The details

Wylie, a 32-year-old entering his eighth NFL season, played a career-low 362 snaps (36% of offensive plays) for the Commanders in 2025 after starting 5 games while Cosmi was injured. With Cosmi's return and the drafting of right tackle Josh Conerly Jr., Wylie's role was reduced to a backup. However, the Commanders value Wylie's experience and ability to play multiple positions, and are expected to offer him a one-year deal to remain with the team in 2026.

  • Cosmi tore his ACL in a January 2025 playoff game and was placed on the PUP list to start the 2025 season.
  • Wylie started 5 games in 2025 while Cosmi was out.
  • Cosmi returned after missing the first 5 games of 2025.

The players

Andrew Wylie

A veteran offensive lineman who has played both guard and tackle positions over his 8-year NFL career, most recently with the Washington Commanders.

Sam Cosmi

The Commanders' starting right guard who missed the beginning of the 2025 season due to an ACL injury suffered in the 2024 playoffs.

Josh Conerly Jr.

The Commanders' 2026 draft pick who was selected to be the team's long-term answer at right tackle.

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What they’re saying

“Wouldn't it be wise to keep both Coleman and Wylie as backups in 2026 because of their versatility?”

— Ivan Lambert, Author (yahoo.com)

What’s next

The Commanders will need to decide in the coming weeks whether to offer Wylie a new contract to remain with the team as a backup offensive lineman.

The takeaway

Retaining veteran depth like Andrew Wylie is crucial for the Commanders as they look to build on their 2025 playoff appearance. Wylie's ability to play multiple positions makes him a valuable insurance policy for the offensive line.