{"id":777482,"date":"2026-02-26T12:22:21","date_gmt":"2026-02-26T12:22:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/777482\/"},"modified":"2026-02-26T12:22:21","modified_gmt":"2026-02-26T12:22:21","slug":"three-free-agent-linebackers-the-commanders-could-target-in-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/777482\/","title":{"rendered":"Three free agent linebackers the Commanders could target in 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"

After last season\u2019s 5-12 finish, one thing is abundantly clear for Washington football fans. The team needs to add a significant amount of talent during the offseason. While Adam Peters will continue to use the draft, the Commanders GM will also have an estimated $82 million<\/a> in cap space at his disposal after various projected restructures, releases, and dead cap hits. Jayden Daniels is entering his third year, and the clock is ticking on the franchise quarterback\u2019s rookie contract, making this arguably the most critical free agency of the new millennium for Washington. With free agency set to open on March 11th<\/a>, Hogs Haven will be working to bring you articles on potential targets to fill various positions of need:<\/p>\n

In each article, we will briefly summarize the team\u2019s current situation at the position, traits the coaching staff will prioritize, along with a list of the top free agents and a detailed look at a few players that fit the team at different projected average annual values (AAV), typically one high-, one moderate-, and one low-cost contract.<\/p>\n

Today, we continue our series with the linebackers.<\/p>\n

Currently Under Contract:<\/p>\n

This position group has a little more talent than some of the others we have profiled. Frankie Luvu regressed<\/a> in his second season with the Commanders but is not far removed from an All-Pro season. New defensive coordinator Daronte Jones seems to understand what needs to be done to get the best out of Frankie. While Jordan Magee didn\u2019t get as much playing time as some wanted last season, he showed enough on the field to be penciled in as a linebacker in a rotational role. Sixth-round pick Kain Medrano barely saw the field in 2025, but he has plenty of potential to develop, much like his teammate Ale Kaho. Special teams ace Nick Bellore may or may not make the team\u2019s final roster.<\/p>\n

The elephant in the room is the expected departure of Bobby Wagner. The future Hall of Fame linebacker gave the Commanders a couple of good years, but as the team looks to get younger and faster on defense, Bobby\u2019s time looks to be at an end. This leaves a large hole in the middle that will need to be filled. Jones is expected to prioritize fast, athletic, sideline-to-sideline linebackers that can tackle, cover, and blitz.<\/p>\n

Top 2026 Linebacker Free Agents:<\/p>\n

Height\/Weight: 6\u20193\u201d, 235 lbs<\/p>\n

Defense & Fumbles Table Def Interceptions Fumbles Tackles Season Age Team Lg Pos G GS Int Yds IntTD Lng PD FF Fmb FR Yds FRTD Sk Comb Solo Ast TFL QBHits Sfty AV Awards 2022<\/a> 24 JAX<\/a> NFL<\/a> RILB 17 15 3 42 0 19 8 0 0 2 28 0 0.0 115 59 56 0 2 0 8 2023<\/a> 25 JAX<\/a> NFL<\/a> LB 15 15 0 0 0 0 7 0 0 2 13 0 0.0 127 75 52 2 1 0 7 2024<\/a> 26 JAX<\/a> NFL<\/a> RLB 16 16 1 3 0 3 4 1 0 0 0 0 2.0 113 61 52 7 5 0 6 2025<\/a> 27 JAX<\/a> NFL<\/a> LB 15 15 5 135 1 99 7 0 0 1 2 0 1.5 81 35 46 6 10 0 16 PB<\/a>,AP-2<\/a> 4 Yrs 63 61 9 180 1 99 26 1 0 5 43 0 3.5 436 230 206 15 18 0 37 17 Game Avg 17 16 2 49 0 99 7 0 0 1 12 0 0.9 118 62 56 4 5 0 9 <\/p>\n

Spotrac Projection: 3 years, $60,432,399<\/p>\n

The Jaguars opted to not exercise Lloyd\u2019s fifth-year option last offseason, and he responded with a breakout campaign, logging 15 starts, 81 tackles, 10 QB hits, 1.5 sacks, 5 interceptions, 7 batted passes, 15 pressures, 5 hurries, 8 knockdowns, 6 tackles for a loss, 0 forced fumbles, and 1 fumble recovery. Devin was a complete player, ranking in the top positional rankings for pass rush, coverage, and run defense while earning a second-team All-Pro nod.<\/p>\n

A safety in high school, his athleticism (9.55 RAS<\/a>) and length are readily apparent on the field. The Jaguars aligned him as an off-ball backer, walked him up as an edge, and used him as a disruptor out of the nickel position. Lloyd functions best in a Will role, where he shows great range, instincts, burst off the snap, and quick decision-making. You can see his skills in this film review from last season:<\/p>\n

Lloyd has two big weaknesses. One is his aggressiveness, as he tends to overrun plays on occasion; however his speed and athleticism help prevent missed tackles. He is also somewhat scheme dependent. Lloyd\u2019s production over his first three years in Jacksonville was sporadic, but that changed with Anthony Campanile\u2019s arrival. The Jaguars\u2019 new defensive coordinator altered how Devin was deployed within a scheme that is aggressive, mobile, and built to cause chaos. It demands defenders do more than one job, allowing pressure packages and post-snap rotations to disguise intent. This aligns with Jones\u2019 expected defensive scheme, and Lloyd could be the leader and difference maker Daronte needs for his defense.<\/p>\n

The Jaguars are retaining Campanile and are sure to make Devin an offer, but the franchise tag would be prohibitive<\/a> ($27.6 million), and Lloyd will likely test the open market. His projected contract is double that of any other linebacker on the free agent list, and his services will come with a steep price tag. For a player that can elevate the defense in run support, coverage, and pass rush, I believe that the Washington Commanders should be the ones to pay it.<\/p>\n

\"Dec<\/a><\/p>\n

Dec 28, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns linebacker Devin Bush (30) reacts after Pittsburgh Steelers miss a field goal in the third quarter at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images Ken Blaze-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Height\/Weight: 5\u201911\u201d, 235 lbs<\/p>\n

Defense & Fumbles Table Def Interceptions Fumbles Tackles Season Age Team Lg Pos G GS Int Yds IntTD Lng PD FF Fmb FR Yds FRTD Sk Comb Solo Ast TFL QBHits Sfty AV Awards 2019<\/a> 21 PIT<\/a> NFL<\/a> LILB\/RILB 16 15 2 6 0 6 4 1 0 4 20 1 1.0 109 72 37 9 2 0 9 AP DRoY-3<\/a> 2020<\/a> 22 PIT<\/a> NFL<\/a> LILB 5 5 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 1.0 26 16 10 0 2 0 3 2021<\/a> 23 PIT<\/a> NFL<\/a> RILB 14 14 0 0 0 0 4 1 0 1 -1 0 2.0 70 41 29 2 4 0 6 2022<\/a> 24 PIT<\/a> NFL<\/a> LILB 17 14 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0.0 81 44 37 2 2 0 6 2023<\/a> 25 SEA<\/a> NFL<\/a> LB 13 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.0 37 18 19 5 0 0 2 2024<\/a> 26 CLE<\/a> NFL<\/a> LLB 16 10 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 1.0 76 45 31 8 1 0 5 2025<\/a> 27 CLE<\/a> NFL<\/a> LB 17 17 3 164 2 97 8 2 0 1 0 0 2.0 125 63 62 7 4 0 10 7 Yrs 98 78 5 170 2 97 24 4 0 6 19 1 7.0 524 299 225 33 15 0 41 17 Game Avg 17 14 1 29 0 97 4 1 0 1 3 0 1.2 91 52 39 6 3 0 6 PIT (4 Yrs) 52 48 2 6 0 6 13 2 0 5 19 1 4.0 286 173 113 13 10 0 24 CLE (2 Yrs) 33 27 3 164 2 97 11 2 0 1 0 0 3.0 201 108 93 15 5 0 15 SEA (1 Yr) 13 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.0 37 18 19 5 0 0 2 <\/p>\n

Spotrac Projection: 3 years, $26,699,712<\/p>\n

Devin Bush is another first-round selection that had a rocky start to his career. After a strong rookie season, he tore his ACL in 2020, with subsequent injuries in 2021. The Steelers declined his fifth-year option, and he spent 2023 with the Seahawks, primarily playing special teams and backup linebacker. Bush signed a one-year contract with the Browns in 2024, and found a home in Jim Schwartz\u2019s defense. He made 16 appearances (10 starts), registering three pass deflections, one sack, and 76 combined tackles.<\/p>\n

Last year was a breakout season for Bush, and his performance in coverage took a massive leap forward. Devin started all 17 games, finishing second on the team with a career-high 125 tackles, along with two sacks, two forced fumbles, eight passes defensed, and three interceptions, two of which he returned for touchdowns. With his injuries in the rearview mirror, Devin Bush is an explosive player with desirable sideline-to-sideline range and an aggressive style. He trusted his instincts, and the big plays followed:<\/p>\n

Much like Lloyd, Bush is a bit undersized and works best with a clean path to make plays where his speed and quickness can help him avoid traffic. He also provides some juice in pass rush, although it is not his forte. Bush is a bit of a one-year wonder and comes with definite concerns for regression. This is reflected in his price tag, which is far more affordable than Lloyd\u2019s.<\/p>\n

Cleveland is up against the cap this season with significant needs on the offensive side of the ball. The Browns also drafted Carson Schwesinger, whose breakout rookie season may make Bush expendable. Again, Daronte Jones would need to see the fit, but Devin Bush could make for a reasonably priced playmaker in the middle of the Commanders new defense.<\/p>\n

\"Oct<\/a><\/p>\n

Oct 19, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) runs onto the field during player introductions prior to the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Height\/Weight: 6\u20193\u201d, 250lbs<\/p>\n

Defense & Fumbles Table Def Interceptions Fumbles Tackles Season Age Team Lg Pos G GS Int Yds IntTD Lng PD FF Fmb FR Yds FRTD Sk Comb Solo Ast TFL QBHits Sfty AV Awards 2022<\/a> 22 KAN<\/a> NFL<\/a> RLB 17 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1.0 35 19 16 3 3 0 4 2023<\/a> 23 KAN<\/a> NFL<\/a> LB 17 10 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 3.0 65 40 25 8 7 0 5 2024<\/a> 24 KAN<\/a> NFL<\/a> RLB 17 14 0 0 0 0 3 3 0 0 0 0 1.0 60 40 20 4 1 0 6 2025<\/a> 25 KAN<\/a> NFL<\/a> LB 14 12 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 2.0 58 25 33 2 5 0 6 4 Yrs 65 44 1 0 0 0 6 3 0 0 0 0 7.0 218 124 94 17 16 0 21 17 Game Avg 17 12 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 1.8 57 32 25 4 4 0 5 <\/p>\n

Spotrac Projection: Market Value<\/p>\n

Leo Chanel\u2019s calling card is versatility and athleticism (9.99 RAS<\/a>). The Chiefs use him as a Swiss Army knife, lining him up at linebacker, edge, and even along the defensive line. A big, strong player, Chanel can be effective in run support and filling holes in the line. He\u2019s shown some ability as a pass rusher, and his coverage skills are gradually improving. Last season, he allowed 12 receptions (14 targets) for 128 receiving yards and one score and showed the ability to operate more in space. In fact, he recorded his first career interception in coverage versus Mark Andrews:<\/p>\n

Chanel\u2019s versatility has worked against him somewhat during his career; while he has played multiple roles, it has only been for about half of the team\u2019s total defensive snaps each season. Projecting a full-time role for Leo is difficult, with opinions ranging from three-down linebacker to versatile edge player in the mold of Andrew Van Ginkel. Daronte Jones will need to have a clear vision for him alongside Frankie Luvu to make a signing work.<\/p>\n

Fortunately, being a rotational player makes Chenal more affordable, and Spotrac lists his AAV at a very reasonable $4.6M, although I do think he ends up signing more in the $6-7M range. As previously discussed, the Chiefs are against the cap and may not be willing to spend in order to retain a rotational player. Personally, I don\u2019t see a fit for Chenal in Washington, but if Jones envisions a role for the linebacker, Adam Peters should pursue him.<\/p>\n

Barring the unexpected entry of a premier edge player to the market, the linebacker position is the best opportunity for Washington to reshape their defense in free agency. Lloyd would be a home run addition, but if Washington misses out or chooses to spend resources elsewhere, there are several other affordable options. The team will try to restore Luvu\u2019s previous role and cultivate their draft picks, but if Adam Peters doesn\u2019t come away with an impact player at the linebacker position, this free agency cannot be deemed a success.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"After last season\u2019s 5-12 finish, one thing is abundantly clear for Washington football fans. The team needs to…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":777483,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2069],"tags":[107294,427,7,6,855,111,6220,2480],"class_list":{"0":"post-777482","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-washington-commanders","8":"tag-2026-washington-commanders-free-agency","9":"tag-commanders","10":"tag-football","11":"tag-nfl","12":"tag-washington","13":"tag-washington-commanders","14":"tag-washington-commanders-free-agency","15":"tag-washingtoncommanders"},"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/channels.im\/@nfl\/116136912568434922","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/777482","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=777482"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/777482\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/777483"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=777482"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=777482"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=777482"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}