The Washington Commanders made a significant roster move this week, signing defensive end Drake Jackson as a free agent. The second-year pass rusher, known for his burst off the edge and versatility, joins Washington as the team looks to reinforce its defensive front heading into the middle portion of the 2025 season.
Jackson, a former standout from USC, brings explosive athleticism and natural pass-rushing instincts. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and disrupt plays in the backfield should provide immediate depth for defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr.âs unit.
Washingtonâs defense has relied heavily on its front seven, but injuries and rotational needs have prompted the front office to make this move. Jacksonâs addition gives the Commanders another weapon on the edge as they prepare for upcoming NFC battles. Head Coach Dan Quinn has consistently emphasized building depth across the defensive line, and Jackson fits the mold of a high-motor player who can step in and make an impact right away.
Noah Brown Lands on Injured Reserve
While Jacksonâs arrival strengthens the defense, the offense took a hit with the loss of wide receiver Noah Brown, who has been placed on the Reserve/Injured List. Brownâs injury sidelines one of Washingtonâs most reliable veteran targets, a blow for a unit already managing absences at the wide receiver position.
Brown was looked to help steady the Commandersâ passing attack amid the injuries to Terry McLaurin and Luke McCaffreyâs growing role in the offense. His size, blocking ability, and knack for making key catches on third down made him an integral part of Washingtonâs offensive balance.
Now, with Brown unavailable, younger receivers will need to step up. Expect more opportunities for rookie JaâCorey Brooks and Tay Martin, both of whom were recently elevated from the practice squad. The Commandersâ passing game, led by quarterback Jayden Daniels, will rely on its next-man-up mentality to maintain rhythm heading into another primetime matchup.
Jonathan Jones Nears Return as Practice Window Opens
In more positive news, the Commanders announced that they have opened the 21-day practice window for cornerback Jonathan Jones, a move signaling that the veteran defensive back is nearing a return to game action. Jones has been recovering from an injury that kept him out of the first several weeks of the season, but his return would provide a major boost to Washingtonâs secondary.
Jonesâ presence brings veteran experience, speed, and leadership to a young defensive backfield that has been tested early this season. His ability to line up inside or outside and handle top opposing receivers makes him a valuable piece of Quinnâs defensive strategy.
Alongside that development, Washington added guard Julian Good-Jones to the practice squad. The addition bolsters depth along the offensive line, which continues to evolve under the guidance of offensive line coach Bobby Johnson. Good-Jones offers versatility at both guard and center, giving the Commanders more flexibility as they navigate upcoming roster challenges.
The Commandersâ recent moves highlight the balance of adapting to injuries while strengthening key areas of the roster. With a new defensive acquisition in Jackson, a returning veteran in Jones on the horizon, and a developing offense led by emerging young talent, Washington appears ready to build momentum entering into the next stretch of the season.
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post Commanders Shake Up Roster Ahead of Key Stretch appeared first on Heavy Sports.