With free agency quickly approaching, we take a look why former New England Patriots edge rusher K'Lavon Chaisson is a perfect fit in the Washington Commanders defense in 2026.
Washington has a real opportunity this offseason. With Jayden Daniels establishing himself as one of the most exciting young quarterbacks in football, the Commanders are no longer just hoping to be competitive — they're building to win. But the defense needs to catch up, and that starts with the edge. K'Lavon Chaisson might just be the answer Washington is looking for. The 26-year-old pass rusher is coming off the best season of his career and is set to hit the open market as an unrestricted free agent after one year in New England. If Washington is serious about taking the next step, Chaisson deserves to be at the top of their list.
A Career Year That Can't Be Ignored
It would be easy to look at Chaisson's résumé and see a cautionary tale — a former first-round pick who never lived up to his draft billing in Jacksonville, bounced around the league, and faded into irrelevance. That story is officially over. In 2025 with the Patriots, he appeared in 20 games, racking up 43 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, 3 forced fumbles, and 73 total quarterback pressures — 10.5 sacks, 18 hits, and 44 hurries. Those aren't backup numbers. Those are numbers that get you paid in March. Chaisson has improved every season since leaving Jacksonville, and at 26, the best version of him may not have arrived yet.
The Athlete Washington's New Defense Was Built For
New defensive coordinator Daronte Jones arrives from Minnesota, where he spent years under Brian Flores running an aggressive, multiple-front defense. Jones is shifting Washington's defensive scheme to one that demands versatile pass rushers who can do more than just pin their ears back. Chaisson fits perfectly. At 6'3" and 255 pounds with 32¼" arm length, he has the ideal frame for an outside linebacker and edge rusher — comfortable in multiple looks, capable of beating blockers around the corner, and athletic enough to drop into coverage. Jones has been clear that versatility is non-negotiable. Chaisson checks every box.
The Commanders finished middle of the pack with 42 sacks in 2025 — respectable, but not the kind of production that keeps offensive coordinators up at night. Jones's more aggressive, pressure-heavy approach only works with the right personnel. Chaisson would immediately be one of the most disruptive players on this defense. He also logged 129 special teams snaps in New England, proving he's a three-phase contributor who understands his role and delivers when it matters.
What Will Chaisson Cost?
Chaisson had the kind of season that drives up markets, and there will be no shortage of teams calling his agent when the league year opens. Projections point toward a deal similar to the three-year, $51.1 million contract Bryce Huff signed with the Eagles in 2024, putting the annual value around $17 million. For Washington, a realistic offer lands around three years and $45–51 million with $26–28 million guaranteed. The Commanders have the cap space to make it work, and given Chaisson's age and trajectory, the risk is manageable. Landing a 26-year-old edge rusher coming off a 10.5-sack season in a scheme built for him could look like a bargain in two years.
The Commanders have a chance to make a real statement this offseason. Signing K'Lavon Chaisson would be a strong first move.