Washington Commanders make bold moves in offseason

In an effort to strengthen their squad for the NFL season, the Washington Commanders have made a number of noteworthy movements that suggest possible tactical changes and reinforce important positions.

According to a source familiar with the negotiations, the Commanders have signed veteran signal-caller Marcus Mariota to a one-year contract for up to $10 million in an effort to bolster their quarterback depth chart. After being selected second overall in the 2015 NFL Draft, Mariota has played in 90 games and started 74 of them for four different teams. He brings a plethora of experience to the table. His most recent experience playing as the Philadelphia Eagles' backup highlights his preparedness to add to Washington's offensive weaponry.

Washington's decision to choose Mariota seems to indicate that they want to address the quarterback situation early in the next draft. If USC's Caleb Williams isn't selected, the Commanders could decide to use their No. 2 selection to choose a strong quarterback prospect, particularly with LSU's Jayden Daniels and North Carolina's Drake Maye as possible targets.

Washington has added important players to strengthen not just their quarterback options but also their offensive and defensive lines. Clelin Ferrell, a defensive end, has signed a one-year contract to bolster the team's pass rush. Similarly, guard Nick Allegretti, who gives the offensive line skill and steadiness, signed a big three-year deal.

Active in the free agency market, the Commanders signed standout players such kicker Brandon McManus, defensive lineman Dorance Armstrong, running back Austin Ekeler, center Tyler Biadasz, and linebacker Frankie Luvu. These additions, along with the recent signing of veteran tight end Zach Ertz, demonstrate general manager Adam Peters' determined attempt to restructure the team's roster.

Under the direction of new offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury and head coach Dan Quinn, Biadasz and Allegretti strengthen the offensive line, while Ferrell and Armstrong fill the vacuum created by the departures of Chase Young and Montez Sweat. Washington continues to be aggressive in its efforts to strengthen the offensive line despite these actions, concentrating on finding a left tackle in the forthcoming draft by using their many selections in the second and third rounds.

Source: AP