Commanders Signing 10-Year Edge Rusher Pitched As Dan Quinn Move

Commanders Signing 10-Year Edge Rusher Pitched As Dan Quinn Move originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

If there is one position group – one major issue – that the Washington Commanders must address before the start of the regular season, it’s their need for a quality edge rusher.

Dante Fowler Jr. and Jonathan Allen’s departures have left a gaping hole in Washington’s defensive line, which has yet to be addressed through free agency, just as it wasn’t via the 2025 NFL Draft.

But there’s a long way to go before the season kicks off, and there are still plenty of options for Washington to target.

Bleacher Report writer Matt Holder thinks 10-year veteran edge rusher Za’Darius Smith would be an excellent fit for the Commanders.

“The Commanders are striving to take advantage of Jayden Daniels’ rookie contract by adding veterans to push for a Lombardi Trophy,” Holder said. “However, Dante Fowler, who led the team in 10.5 sacks last year, returned to the Dallas Cowboys during free agency.

“So, the Commanders’ defense could use a pass-rusher to help replace that production.”

Smith is a three-time Pro Bowler and even received All-Pro honors in 2020. He may not be the player he once was with the Green Bay Packers or Baltimore Ravens – he will be 33 in September – but he can still rush the passer at a high rate.

That is something Washington is desperate for.

Fowler, now with the Dallas Cowboys, was the lone player on Washington’s defense to finish the season with over 10 sacks. They enjoyed career years from other players like Frankie Luvu, but we bet coach Dan Quinn knows they need to find a more dependable performer who they can rely on throughout an entire season.

Smith could be that player.

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 5, 2025, where it first appeared.

Commanders Signing 10-Year Edge Rusher Pitched As Dan Quinn Move

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