Key Takeaways:
– The Washington Commanders might sign free agents D.J. Humphries and Jayron Kearse.
– Both players, former Arizona Cardinals offensive tackle and Dallas Cowboys safety, are considered solid performers.
– Humphries, although recovering from an ACL injury, could bring a significant upgrade to the Commanders.
– Kearse, despite a rough 2023 season, has shown high potential and could boost the secondary of the Commanders.
As the Washington Commanders gear up for the 2024 season, one thing is for sure; they are open to exploring all avenues to revitalize their franchise. From unknown rookies to established free agents, the Commanders are scanning the breadth and depth of talent available to rewrite their team’s narrative.
Two names that have emerged in the fray are D.J. Humphries and Jayron Kearse. Former Arizona Cardinals offensive tackle Humphries and ex-Dallas Cowboy safety Kearse were highlighted as potential contributors to the Commanders’ success by Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox.
Will Humphries Turn the Tide for Commanders?
Washington anticipates starting Cornelius Lucas, an 11-year veteran, at left offensive tackle. However, placing Lucas at that centerstage might not be the ideal move, especially with no. 2 overall pick Jayden Daniels expected to take the quarterback mantle. Lucas only has one season of full-time starting experience under his belt, making room for potential gaps in the lineup.
This is where Humphries, despite his injuries, could bring a significant upgrade. Performing in Pro Bowl status in 2021, Humphries committed to the Cardinals in August 2022 with a three-year contract extension worth $51 million. But the going got tough when he ended the year with an ACL injury that may sideline him until mid-season of 2024.
Despite his recovery duration, Humphries has the potential to strengthen the Commanders’ offensive line, even if he’s late to the game. This is why Knox expects teams to monitor his recovery progress, with the prospect to acquire him before training camp if their left-tackle situation is far from perfect.
As New Coach, Can Quinn Harness Kearse’s Potential?
At 6-foot-4 and 215 pounds, Kearse is not just a big man, but also an effective safety. Playing his last three seasons under new Washington head coach Dan Quinn, he’s shown an impressive level of performance, barring a rough 2023 season marred by injuries.
In his prime, Kearse recorded career-highs in 2021, with 101 tackles and 15 starts, along with 2 interceptions and 10 pass deflections. Although injuries limited his 2023 season to just 10 games, he still managed to keep the opposing passer’s rating down to a mere 79.6%.
With Quinn at the helm for the Commanders and Kearse familiar with his strategies, the safety’s addition could potentially transform Washington’s secondary lineup.
While some critical challenges lay ahead for the Washington Commanders, the potential signing of Humphries and Kearse could be the moves they need to knuckle down and rebuild their roster. Harnessing the potential of both free agents could give the team a competitive edge and transform their fortune in the coming season.