Commanders Make Solid Moves Early in Free Agency

GM Adam Peters addresses key needs on offense and defense in first two days of free agency

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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In the first two days of 2026 NFL free agency, Washington Commanders GM Adam Peters has made a series of strategic moves to improve the team, including extending the contract of star offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil, signing a feisty cornerback in Amik Robertson, bringing back veteran backup quarterback Marcus Mariota, and adding several younger, athletic players on defense. While the team missed out on some high-profile wide receiver targets, Peters' early free agency activity has drawn praise from analysts for addressing key needs without overspending.

Why it matters

The Commanders are looking to build on a promising 2025 season and take the next step towards contention in the NFC East. Retaining core players like Tunsil, shoring up the secondary, and adding young talent on defense are important steps towards that goal. Though they missed out on a top wide receiver, Peters has demonstrated an ability to be prudent with the team's resources while still making impactful moves.

The details

In the first two days of free agency, the Commanders have: 1) Signed offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil to a contract extension through 2028, ensuring stability on Jayden Daniels' blind side; 2) Signed feisty cornerback Amik Robertson to a two-year deal, adding an aggressive presence to the secondary; 3) Brought back veteran backup quarterback Marcus Mariota on a team-friendly deal to continue working with Daniels and the offense; 4) Signed pass rusher Odafe Oweh to a four-year, $100 million contract, pairing him with the athletic Dorance Armstrong on the defensive line; 5) Signed younger defensive tackle Tim Settle to a three-year deal, getting "younger and faster" up front; and 6) Added 25-year-old linebacker Leo Chanel, who brings athleticism and physicality to the defense.

  • On March 13, 2026, the Commanders extended the contract of offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil through 2028.
  • On March 14, 2026, the Commanders signed cornerback Amik Robertson to a two-year contract.
  • On March 14, 2026, the Commanders re-signed veteran quarterback Marcus Mariota.
  • On March 14, 2026, the Commanders signed pass rusher Odafe Oweh to a four-year, $100 million contract.
  • On March 14, 2026, the Commanders signed defensive tackle Tim Settle to a three-year contract.
  • On March 14, 2026, the Commanders signed linebacker Leo Chanel.

The players

Laremy Tunsil

An offensive tackle and one of the top players on the Commanders' roster.

Amik Robertson

A cornerback known for his aggressive play in coverage.

Marcus Mariota

A veteran backup quarterback who has worked with the Commanders' offense for the past two seasons.

Odafe Oweh

A young, ascending pass rusher who the Commanders signed to a lucrative four-year contract.

Tim Settle

A defensive tackle brought in to provide younger and more athletic depth on the interior defensive line.

Leo Chanel

A 25-year-old linebacker with strong tackling ability and athleticism.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.