By signing offensive linemen, commanders can benefit from cap restrictions.

It’s no secret that general manager Adam Peters’ Washington Commanders must prioritize adding offensive linemen during the first offseason. It’s hardly by coincidence that Sam Howell led the league in quarterback sacks. The signal-caller had absolutely appalling protection in front of them. There was nothing to be grateful for, save for Sam Cosmi.

This unit requires long-term planning and appropriate investment. The Commanders are fortunate to have six draft selections in the first 103 picks and the greatest salary-cap room available in the NFL. Although Peters has a lot to do, there are many reasons to be optimistic given his impressive record.

Jonah Williams could be able to help them with their edge problems. The offensive tackle with versatility is just starting to reach his prime. After deciding to place wide receiver Tee Higgins with the franchise tag, the Cincinnati Bengals may find that he is a necessary sacrifice.

Commanders urged to splash the cash on Jonah Williams

Bryan Manning from USA Today Sports urged the Commanders to explore the possibility of signing Williams if he hits the open market. Interest in the former first-round pick would be high, but the writer believes this would be an immediate upgrade on Andrew Wylie, who underwhelmed after signing in 2023 free agency.

“The Commanders could have as many as four new [offensive line] starters in 2024. Only RG Sam Cosmi is assured of his spot. Washington should look to free agency to address one or two of those positions, and it begins at right tackle. [Jonah] Williams is 26, and while the Bengals would love to retain him, they have other players to pay. He should hit free agency and have a strong market. Williams began his career at left tackle but moved to right tackle in 2023 to accommodate Orlando Brown. Some teams could view Williams as a left tackle, which would also alter his asking price. For Washington, it should pursue Williams to play right tackle and use the draft to find the left tackle of the future to protect the rookie quarterback.”

Williams’ performance for the Bengals in the previous season was mediocre at best. It’s never simple to switch around the offensive line positions. It also didn’t help continuity that quarterback Joe Burrow missed the most of the season due to injury. Nevertheless, he produced work that was encouraging under trying conditions.

The question for the Commanders to answer is whether Williams merits such a significant financial commitment. Based on a four-year, $43.43 million contract, Spotrac forecasts his market worth to be $10.85 million each season. Washington may easily reach this number given the abundance of resources at its disposal.

The Commanders cannot afford to lose money on another veteran signing. The powerful should take a different course unless they are completely convinced. Considering the anticipated interest, engaging in a bidding war for the player would be an additional stupid course of action.

It will be interesting to observe how Peters approaches answering this challenging puzzle. High-caliber draft prospects and immediate seasoned players must be balanced. With the resources at hand, the Commanders won’t have a better chance to resolve this issue permanently. It will be important to make the most of them.

Williams might be superior to most. Additionally, he may be the most recent in a long string of wealthy free agents who fall short of their billing.