Commanders' Kendall Fuller: Top Free Agent CB?
Washington Commanders cornerback Kendall Fuller is one of multiple free agents that new general manager Adam Peters -- and his eventual coaching staff -- will have to decide on this offseason. But whether the Commanders are interested in retaining Fuller or not, there will likely be multiple suitors for the veteran this offseason.
USA Today
Pro Football Focus recently ranked their top 150 potential free agents for this upcoming offseason, and Fuller checked in at No. 15.
"Fuller was the lone bright spot in the Commanders' cornerback room in 2023, and while he is plenty capable as a wide cornerback, perhaps his prior experience in the slot and at safety could be attractive to teams that desire the ability to move the savvy veteran around as he and his game ages," PFF wrote.
The former third-round pick has spent six seasons with the Washington franchise across two stints. In his age-28 season, Fuller recorded 79 combined tackles, two interceptions, two fumble recoveries, and two tackles for a loss. He should be able to land a multi-year deal in free agency.
Whether the Commanders will mount a serious attempt to retain Fuller or not likely depends on what coach they ultimately pick, and/or who will be calling plays defensively. What we do know is that first-round pick Emmanuel Forbes had a disastrous rookie season, posting a 50.9 PFF grade. If the Commanders don't retain Fuller, they'll likely be looking for two new starting cornerbacks this offseason.
According to Over The Cap, Washington will have $73 million in cap space to work with this offseason, the most in the NFL. That could go quickly, though, as the Commanders need to rebuild their offensive line before likely using the No. 2 overall pick on a quarterback. They also need to add multiple pass rushers after trading Chase Young and Montez Sweat before the 2023 trade deadline. Cornerback will be on the list this offseason, but perhaps not at the top of it.
