Jan. 16, 2026, 3:30 a.m. ET

The Washington Commanders have over 30 players who will hit free agency in March. Players such as future Hall of Famers Bobby Wagner and Von Miller, former Pro Bowler Deebo Samuel and longtime punter — and Washington’s only 2025 Pro Bowler — Tress Way are all slated to hit free agency.

All four of those players will be over 30 in 2026. Each player brings a different value. Wagner remains a productive inside linebacker, but struggles in coverage. Other teams have exposed those coverage liabilities. However, he also remains a strong locker-room leader and culture setter. He is also close to breaking the NFL record in tackles.

Miller had nine sacks last season, playing more than expected due to injuries. After first expressing a desire to return to Washington in 2026, Miller later said he wants to finish his career with the Broncos. The Commanders need multiple upgrades at edge rusher, so it’s unlikely that Miller returns.

It’s hard to imagine a scenario where Washington doesn’t bring Way back. He remains one of the NFL’s best punters, is a beloved teammate and extremely active in the community.

Of these four free agents, Samuel is perhaps the most interesting. While he may not be as fast as he was in 2021, Samuel remains dangerous after the catch. Sure, his yards per reception were down in 2025, but he was also playing more as a traditional wide receiver because the Commanders were decimated by injuries. Samuel started the year strong and finished on a high note. Under new offensive coordinator David Blough, Washington may look to add more speed on the outside, making Samuel expendable.

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How many of Washington’s free agents will have outside interest?

CBS Sports recently named the top 50 free agents for 2026, and two Washington players made the list: Samuel (No. 44) and Wagner (No. 47).

If the Commanders bring Wagner back, they need a succession plan. Washington can’t have Wagner playing anywhere close to 100% of the defensive snaps. You must also consider that the Commanders will have a new defensive coordinator, who may want a fresh start in the middle of his defense. Wagner could also retire, but he’s given no indication that is his plan.

Washington has plenty of cap space to be active in free agency, and GM Adam Peters noted the need to get “younger and faster.” Those words could mean the end of several of the 30-somethings on the Commanders’ roster.