Sep 29, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Washington Commanders helmet at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Commanders re-sign key defensive player on one-year deal

Originally posted on Washington Commanders on SI
By Dustin Lewis | Last updated Mar 13, 2025 4:47 PM ET

The Washington Commanders have gotten off to a strong start in free agency, namely through the trade market after acquiring wide receiver Deebo Samuel and left tackle Laremy Tunsil. The Commanders are adding talent from the outside but they've also done a job of retaining many of their own free agents.

Head coach Dan Quinn and quarterback Jayden Daniels have their eye sights on another deep postseason run and potentially winning it all after coming so close to the Super Bowl last season.

On Thursday, Washington agreed to a one-year deal with veteran defensive tackle Sheldon Day, locking in his first return for the 2025 campaign, per NFL Network's Mike Garafolo.

Day initially joined the Commanders' practice squad following training camp cuts last season. He was promoted to the active roster on October 16 and ended up playing an important role while Jonathan Allen missed the bulk of the regular season due to a partially torn pectoral muscle.

In total, Day appeared in 12 games off the bench, totaling a career-high 24 tackles, two tackles for loss, and a pass deflection. He saw action in all three of Washington's playoff games, recording one tackle.

The #Commanders have agreed to terms with DT Sheldon Day on a one-year deal to keep him in Washington, source says.

Day played a big role for Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt in a defense that was without Jonathan Allen for two months down the stretch. Now back with those guys. pic.twitter.com/6pj98kFj5P
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 13, 2025

With Jonathan Allen moving on to the Minnesota Vikings, Day will likely be called upon again next season to contribute alongside Daron Payne and Jer'Zhan Newton. The Commanders have made multiple changes to their defensive front, signing veterans such as Eddie Goldman, Javon Kinlaw, and Deatrich Wise.

Day is gearing up for his tenth season at the professional level. He was originally selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the fourth round of the 2016 NFL Draft.

The 30-year-old has bounced around with six teams during his time in the NFL. He's suited up for the Jaguars, San Francisco 49ers, Indianapolis Colts, Cleveland Browns, Minnesota Vikings, and Commanders.

Day has appeared in 85 total games, making four starts. He's totaled 108 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, seven sacks, one fumble recovery, and eight pass deflections.