NFL Analysts See Commanders in "Poor Position" Ahead of Free Agency

Experts Florio and Simms highlight the team's numerous roster holes and need for a major offseason overhaul.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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NFL analysts Mike Florio and Chris Simms discussed the Washington Commanders' roster issues and bleak outlook heading into free agency. They noted the team's lack of talent at key positions like wide receiver, offensive line, and front seven on defense, and questioned whether the Commanders' 2024 success was an aberration. The analysts emphasized the team's need to address multiple needs this offseason to avoid continued struggles.

Why it matters

The Commanders are coming off a disappointing 2025 season and face a critical offseason to improve their roster and get back on track. Florio and Simms' assessment highlights the significant work the team needs to do to field a competitive team, especially with the franchise quarterback in place but lacking talent around him.

The details

Florio and Simms pointed to the Commanders' lack of talent at wide receiver beyond Terry McLaurin, with the likely departure of Deebo Samuel leaving them thin at the position. They also cited concerns about the offensive line and the aging, unimpressive front seven on defense. The analysts felt the Commanders would need to be very active in free agency and the draft to address these roster holes.

  • The Commanders enter free agency next week.

The players

Mike Florio

An NFL analyst and co-host of the Pro Football Talk program.

Chris Simms

An NFL analyst and co-host of the Pro Football Talk program.

Terry McLaurin

The Commanders' top wide receiver.

Daron Payne

The Commanders' best defensive player on their aging front seven.

Bobby Wagner

A veteran linebacker who is the most well-known player on the Commanders' defense.

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What they’re saying

“Washington, there's not many places you can look at, they don't need.”

— Chris Simms, NFL Analyst (Pro Football Talk)

“They have a lot of needs. This team has the franchise quarterback, and beyond that, what do they really have?”

— Mike Florio, NFL Analyst (Pro Football Talk)

“Everything but quarterback, would that be fair to say?”

— Mike Florio, NFL Analyst (Pro Football Talk)

“The team looks like it's in one of the more poor positions we can find in football right now.”

— Chris Simms, NFL Analyst (Pro Football Talk)

What’s next

The Commanders will need to be very active in free agency and the upcoming NFL Draft to address their numerous roster holes, particularly on offense and defense, in order to field a competitive team in 2026.

The takeaway

The Commanders face a critical offseason to rebuild their roster and surround their franchise quarterback with the necessary talent to compete. Analysts see the team in a "poor position" heading into free agency, highlighting the significant work required to address their many needs and avoid another disappointing season.