Commanders Re-Sign Starting Guard to 1-Year Contract

27-year-old Chris Paul returns to Washington's offensive line after exploring other options.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 12:21am

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The Washington Commanders have re-signed starting guard Chris Paul to a one-year contract. The 27-year-old originally joined the team in 2022 as a seventh-round draft pick and started 15 games for the Commanders last season. Paul wanted to stay in Washington to continue playing alongside left tackle Laremy Tunsil.

Why it matters

Retaining Chris Paul provides continuity on the Commanders' offensive line, which is crucial for protecting quarterback Jayden Daniels. Paul has proven to be a solid pass blocker, though his run blocking needs improvement. The team may still look to upgrade the guard position through the 2026 NFL Draft.

The details

After exploring other options, Chris Paul has signed a one-year deal to remain the Commanders' starting left guard. The four-year veteran started 15 games for Washington last season, earning a 78.2 pass block grade from Pro Football Focus, which ranked fifth among all NFL guards. However, his 38.2 run block grade was a weakness. The Commanders hope another year in their system can help Paul develop as a more well-rounded offensive lineman.

  • Chris Paul originally joined the Commanders in 2022 as a seventh-round draft pick.
  • Paul started 15 of 17 games for the Commanders in the 2025-26 season.

The players

Chris Paul

A 27-year-old offensive guard who has spent the last four seasons with the Washington Commanders after being drafted in the seventh round in 2022.

Laremy Tunsil

The Commanders' starting left tackle, with whom Paul wanted to continue playing.

Jayden Daniels

The Commanders' starting quarterback, who will benefit from the continuity on the offensive line.

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What they’re saying

“Sources: The Commanders have re-signed OG Chris Paul to a 1-yr deal. After exploring many options, he wanted to run it back playing next to Laremy Tunsil and help get the Commanders back to the playoffs.”

— Jordan Schultz, NFL Insider (Twitter)

What’s next

The Commanders will continue to evaluate the guard position leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft, and could potentially use a high-value pick to upgrade the spot if they feel Paul's weaknesses as a run blocker are too difficult to overcome.

The takeaway

Retaining Chris Paul on a one-year deal provides stability for the Commanders' offensive line, but the team may still look to invest in the guard position through the draft to find a more well-rounded player to protect quarterback Jayden Daniels.