Commanders' next move after Deatrich Wise injury blow couldn't be clearer

Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn wasn't going to give any more injury updates until the team gets back down to business next week. But one veteran player left no doubt regarding his status moving forward.

And it's not good.

Deatrich Wise Jr. will miss the rest of 2025 after discovering that his quad issue sustained on Thursday Night Football against the Green Bay Packers required surgery. His post on Instagram thanked everyone associated with the Commanders for their support, focusing on the positives after his crushing setback.

Wise was an underrated free-agent signing this offseason. He started the campaign well, providing a solid base against the run and generating four pressures. But considering he only joined Washington on a one-year deal from the New England Patriots this offseason, he's probably played his final game for the Commanders.

Commanders need to call Jadeveon Clowney after Deatrich Wise Jr. injury blow

This is not the time for half-measures. The Commanders need to react swiftly to this setback, and possibly others. They have Jacob Martin and 2024 seventh-round pick Javontae Jean-Baptiste, but that's about it. Von Miller is there, but he's a pass-rushing rotational presence at this late stage of his career.

Adam Peters must take decisive action. And his next move couldn't be clearer.

The Commanders need to bring in Jadeveon Clowney. And he cannot leave without a deal being agreed.

Clowney remains unemployed after being harshly released by the Carolina Panthers after the draft. His production last season suggests there is a lot of good football left. While he's never reached the generational hype expected coming out of college, he's a solid pro and an outstanding leadership presence in the locker room.

He also has similar traits to Wise. Clowney is an exceptional run defender with more pass-rushing prowess than the player he'd be replacing in this scenario. Much will depend on the amount of money involved, but this appears to be the best available option on the market right now.

If Peters identifies Clowney as someone who could potentially assist, he must act with conviction. The former South Carolina standout recently visited the Dallas Cowboys, but no agreement surfaced. Washington's bitter division rival is staying in touch with the player, but the Commanders could easily swoop in with an offer.

Peters has some extra financial resources to utilize after restructuring left tackle Laremy Tunsil's contract. According to Over the Cap, the Commanders have $30.85 million in available cap space, which is more than enough to sign Clowney and have a lot left over.

Regardless of whether it's Clowney or someone else, the Commanders have to do something. Otherwise, the consequences will be severe.