The Washington Commanders officially commenced the roster-building phase of the 2026 offseason on January 29 by signing 11 players to Reserve/Futures contracts. These signings are standard procedure after the season concludes, allowing teams to retain the rights to players who were not on the active roster, typically from their own practice squad, for the upcoming league year.
The list of players signed includes a mix of young talent and depth across various positions. The offensive line additions are guard Sala Aumavae-Laulu and tackle Tim McKay. On the defensive line, the team secured defensive tackles Ricky Barber and TJ Maguranyanga, along with defensive ends D.J. Johnson. The secondary sees safety Rob McDaniel and cornerback Qwuantrezz Knight, who was signed separately from the main group, return. The wide receiver room adds two names: Ja'Corey Brooks and Jacoby Jones.
These contracts do not guarantee a spot on the 2026 regular season roster but provide these players an opportunity to compete during offseason workouts, training camp, and the preseason. It is a cost-effective way for the Commanders to maintain continuity with developmental players they have worked with throughout the previous season. The moves help fill out the 90-man offseason roster as the team prepares for free agency and the draft. For players like Brooks, Jones, and Knight, it represents a crucial next step in their professional careers and a chance to impress the new defensive coaching staff.
