Commanders Sign $100 Million Edge Rusher in Free Agency

Washington makes big splash with Odafe Oweh signing as they look to build around QB Jayden Daniels.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Washington Commanders made a major move in free agency, signing former Los Angeles Chargers edge rusher Odafe Oweh to a four-year, $100 million contract. The signing comes as the Commanders look to build a strong supporting cast around quarterback Jayden Daniels, who is entering his third season. The team also recently extended left tackle Laremy Tunsil on a two-year, $30 million per year deal.

Why it matters

The Commanders are hoping these big-ticket free agent signings will help them return to the NFC Championship game, which they reached in Daniels' rookie season. Oweh provides a dominant pass rusher to bolster the defense, while Tunsil's extension locks down the blindside protection for the young QB.

The details

Oweh, 24, is coming off a strong season with the Chargers where he recorded 12.5 sacks. He will now anchor the Commanders' pass rush alongside Deatrich Wise Jr. and Dorance Armstrong. The $25 million per year contract for Oweh is seen as fair value for one of the top edge rushers on the market.

  • The Commanders signed Oweh to a four-year, $100 million contract on March 9, 2026.
  • The team also extended left tackle Laremy Tunsil on a two-year, $30 million per year deal.

The players

Odafe Oweh

A 24-year-old edge rusher who was previously with the Los Angeles Chargers.

Laremy Tunsil

The Commanders' starting left tackle who was extended on a two-year, $30 million per year contract.

Jayden Daniels

The Commanders' young starting quarterback who is entering his third NFL season.

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What they’re saying

“The former Ravens and Chargers edge rusher was one of the top free agents in this year's class -- and he got paid like it. This price ($25 million per year) seems right in line with where Oweh's market should be.”

— Seth Walder, ESPN Analyst (ESPN)

What’s next

With Daniels healthy and the team making big moves in free agency, the Commanders will look to build on their NFC Championship game appearance from Daniels' rookie season and make a push to get back to that level in 2026.

The takeaway

The Commanders are going all-in to build a championship contender around young quarterback Jayden Daniels, making major investments in free agency to bolster both the offensive line and pass rush. These moves show the team's commitment to putting the right pieces around their promising young QB.