A “top-of-the-market” free-agent edge-rusher is a perfect fit for Dan Quinn’s defense with the Washington Commanders. Head coach Quinn is relying on general manager Adam Peters to spend big and sign edge rusher Josh Allen in the upcoming 2024 NFL free agency.
Allen, who recorded 17.5 sacks for the Jacksonville Jaguars last season, is a highly sought-after free agent. He has the ability to play a similar role to Micah Parsons, who played for Quinn and the Dallas Cowboys, according to Dan Pizzuta of The 33rd Team. Pizzuta believes that Allen can move around the formation like Parsons and use his speed off the line to disrupt opposing offenses.
While it may be difficult for Allen to live up to the standards set by an All-Pro like Parsons, Pizzuta believes that Allen is not as far off as expected. Pizzuta also envisions the Commanders creating a formidable defensive front by pairing Allen with defensive tackles Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne.
Regardless of how the new defensive front shapes up, Quinn and Whitt need to generate more pressure to improve their lackluster pass rush, which suffered after the trade of Chase Young and Montez Sweat. The Commanders were unable to fill the void left by Young and Sweat, and two former seventh-round draft picks, Casey Toohill and James Smith-Williams, attempted to step up. However, both Toohill and Smith-Williams are scheduled to become free agents.
Toohill, who recorded five sacks and eight pressures, could potentially return to the Commanders. With experience as an outside linebacker and defensive end, he could handle the versatile role that Quinn gave to Parsons in Dallas. However, trusting Toohill would be a risk that the Commanders do not need to take, especially considering the significant amount of salary cap space projected for Peters.
Instead, the Commanders would be better off using some of their available cap space, estimated to be the league-leading $83,543,548, to bring in Allen. He has shown the ability to consistently pressure quarterbacks, which is exactly what Quinn and Whitt’s defensive scheme requires.
Despite Allen’s impressive performance, the Jaguars are expected to make a strong push to retain him. Trent Baalke, the Jaguars’ counterpart in the AFC South, has already expressed his intention to keep Allen on the team. Baalke stated, “Josh Allen’s going to be a Jaguar next year,” and has yet to begin negotiations on a new deal with the impending free agent.
Overall, the Washington Commanders would greatly benefit from adding a top-tier edge rusher like Josh Allen to their defense. With the necessary financial resources available, it is a move that could reinvigorate their pass rush and elevate their defensive front to new heights.
THE COMMANDERS EYEING BIG MOVE FOR STAR DEFENSIVE PLAYER
In a surprising turn of events, the Washington Commanders are looking to make a splash in the NFL free agency market. With their sights set on star defensive player Allen, the Commanders are ready to outbid the Jaguars for his services. This is a bold move that could significantly strengthen their defense.
The Commanders’ head coach, Quinn, understands the importance of having a dominant pass-rusher in his defensive system. He is eager for Peters, the team’s general manager, to do whatever it takes to bring Allen on board. The Commanders have the resources to make it happen, and they are determined to secure Allen’s talents.
While Allen is the top target, the Commanders are also exploring other options in this year’s free-agency class. One player that has caught their attention is a versatile edge-rusher who had a career year with the New York Jets. The Commanders’ coaching staff, including Quinn and Whitt, know that they need to improve their pass rush in the upcoming season.
During his introductory press conference, Whitt emphasized the importance of a disruptive defense. He wants his players to arrive violently, turn the ball over, and wreak havoc on opposing quarterbacks. This aggressive mindset will be crucial for the Commanders’ success.
By placing Allen on the edge of their defensive front, Whitt hopes to generate more pressure without relying heavily on blitzing. Quinn, known for his creativity, will find ways to exploit favorable matchups for Allen along the line of scrimmage. This level of innovation was lacking in the Commanders’ previous defensive schemes.
A new scheme alone won’t be enough to transform the Commanders’ defense. They need to bolster their talent through free agency, and Allen could be the missing piece. With his addition, the Commanders aim to field a more disruptive and formidable defense.
James Dudko, a respected sports journalist, covers the New York Giants, Washington Commanders, New England Patriots, and Baltimore Ravens. Stay tuned for more updates on the Commanders’ pursuit of Allen and other exciting NFL news.
According to the Source heavy.com