Three potential cuts for Washington Commanders

By Bruce Ewing | Last updated Feb 8, 2023 11:20 AM ET

When the NFL increased the salary cap to nearly $225 million, the Commanders found themselves with $8,358,246 to spend in 2023. That’s not much, but by moving a few injury-prone players, Washington could find itself with more money to spend than most NFL teams. Here’s who could be cut.

Carson Wentz, QB

The Commanders can save $26 million as long as Wentz is released before the June 1 deadline. Trading for Wentz was a desperation move and a mistake. In eight games with Washington, Wentz had 26 sacks, 11 touchdowns, nine interceptions and two wins.

For now, the team plans to go with Sam Howell, the 2022 fifth-round pick from North Carolina. Howell started and played well in the season finale against the Cowboys, but don’t bet the house on him starting yet.

Logan Thomas, TE

The former college quarterback showed promise in 2020, and the team gave him a three-year, $24 million contract extension in 2021. He has missed 13 games since with a strained hamstring, a torn ACL and a calf strain. In 2022, he had one touchdown and 323 yards receiving in 14 games.

Thomas is scheduled to make more than $11 million over the next two years, with a $25,000 per game bonus. His dead cap number is $3,500,000 next season, so the Commanders could save money by drafting a younger and healthier tight end.

Keep an eye on Oregon State’s Luke Musgrave. He had the eighth-fastest time at the Reese’s Senior Bowl. The Commanders had four coaches working there with both teams.

Chase Roullier, C

Roullier is due to make $12,420,000 with a $30,000 per game bonus next season. His dead cap number is $8,100,000. He’s talented, but Roullier has only played in 10 games since 2020. He suffered a broken leg in 2021 and a season-ending knee injury in Week 2 of 2022.

The team could draft a center, but if the Commanders want a veteran to anchor their line, San Francisco’s Jake Brendel could be a cost-effective option. He had only three starts in his first six seasons, but in 17 starts with the 49ers this season, he allowed pressure on just 2% of pass plays.

Coach Ron Rivera recently interviewed Anthony Lynn, the Niners’ assistant head coach, for the offensive coordinator position. Perhaps he’ll bring Brendel with him.

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