By Sunday 
Washington Weighs Offensive Line Upgrades Amid Stanley Rumors
The Washington Commanders are at a pivotal juncture in their roster-building process. With an emerging franchise quarterback in Jayden Daniels and a clear vision for the future, the team must ensure its offensive line is solidified.
General manager Adam Peters faces some difficult decisions, especially with key injuries and a pressing need to bolster the trenches. Among the potential solutions? A high-profile pursuit of Baltimore Ravens left tackle Ronnie Stanley, whose projected contract could put Washington firmly in the mix.
Offensive Line Uncertainty Forces Commanders to Explore Options
After a surprising run to the NFC Championship, the Commanders are well aware that their current offensive line configuration won’t be enough to push them over the top. Sam Cosmi’s ACL tear complicates matters, leaving a glaring hole on the interior. Meanwhile, left tackle Brandon Coleman, a 2024 third-round pick, showed flashes of potential but also struggled with consistency in his rookie season.
Peters and his staff must decide whether Coleman remains at left tackle or if an experienced upgrade is necessary. If the latter is the case, Stanley is arguably the best available option in free agency.
Ronnie Stanley’s Market and Washington’s Potential Interest
Stanley has long been considered one of the league’s top blindside protectors. Injuries hindered him in past seasons, but his durability improved in 2024, easing concerns about long-term reliability. The Ravens may want to keep him, but with just $5.95 million in cap space, retaining the All-Pro tackle could be a challenge.
NFL analyst Marcus Mosher identified Washington as a potential suitor, projecting that Stanley could command around $21 million per season. He highlighted the demand for quality tackles in free agency, stating:
“There are several starting tackles available in free agency, but most of them are well past their primes or have significant injury concerns. Ronnie Stanley is clearly the best tackle on the market, and the fact that he’s started 34 games (including playoffs) in the last two seasons has quieted some of the injury concerns that haunted him early in his career.”
If the Ravens can’t match that number, the Commanders—who have ample cap space—could make a serious push to bring Stanley to Washington.
Commanders’ Dilemma: Stick with Coleman or Make a Splash?
The biggest question for Washington is whether to commit to Coleman as their long-term left tackle or shift him inside and sign a veteran like Stanley. If they believe Coleman is better suited for the interior, Stanley’s addition would make perfect sense. However, if they stick with Coleman, the focus may shift to strengthening the guard and center positions instead.
Regardless of their approach, the Commanders cannot afford to overlook offensive line improvements. Protecting Jayden Daniels remains the franchise’s top priority, and making a calculated move—whether it’s investing in Stanley or addressing other areas—will be crucial in determining the team’s trajectory.
Will the Commanders Make the Move?
Stanley is undoubtedly a premier talent, but his price tag will be steep. If Washington views him as a game-changing protector for Daniels, they could justify the financial commitment. On the other hand, Peters must weigh whether that money is better spent elsewhere, particularly with other positions needing attention.
One thing is clear: The Commanders aren’t settling. Whether it’s Stanley or another high-impact signing, expect Washington to be aggressive in ensuring their offensive line is ready for another deep postseason run.