The Washington Commanders wasted no time in bolstering their defense during the opening of the veteran free agency negotiating window. On Tuesday, the team announced the signings of defensive ends Clelin Ferrell and Dante Fowler Jr, as well as safety Jeremy Chinn.

Clelin Ferrell, the former fourth overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, joins the Commanders after spending his first three seasons with the Las Vegas Raiders. After struggling to live up to expectations in Oakland, Ferrell found new life with the San Francisco 49ers in 2023. Playing as a rotational pass rusher, Ferrell managed to make an impact, and Washington is hoping he can continue to excel as a starter. His signing adds to the team's emphasis on strengthening the defensive line.

Dante Fowler Jr, a nine-year veteran, brings his experience to the Commanders after stints with four different teams, including the Dallas Cowboys in the past two seasons. Despite playing limited snaps, Fowler has been productive, accumulating 40 tackles, 10 sacks, and 12 tackles for loss in just two seasons. With the additions of Ferrell, Fowler, and previous draft picks KJ Henry and Andre Jones Jr, Washington now has a solid foundation for their defensive end group.

The Commanders also addressed their safety position by signing Jeremy Chinn to a one-year deal. Chinn, who had an impressive rookie season in 2020, earning him a runner-up spot in the Defensive Rookie of the Year voting, continued to excel in 2022. With the influx of available safeties in free agency, Chinn opted for a short-term deal with hopes of proving his worth and securing a larger contract in the future.

These signings showcase Washington's commitment to strengthening their defense. With Clelin Ferrell, Dante Fowler Jr, and Jeremy Chinn added to the roster, the Commanders are poised to have a formidable defensive unit in the upcoming season. However, it's important to note that reported deals during the negotiating window may not come to fruition, and contract details will be finalized after the new league year begins on March 13.

As the free agency period progresses, fans can expect more signings and roster changes. The Commanders are projected to have 29 offensive players, 28 defensive players, and 3 specialists under contract heading into the new league year. The team's defensive lineup is yet to be fully determined, but with the draft approaching, there is plenty of time to add more firepower to the unit.

Please note that reported salaries and cap hits during the negotiating window can be misleading, as they are often leaked by players' agents and do not represent the actual contract details. A more accurate assessment of the salary cap impact will be available once the contracts are finalized and posted on Over the Cap, a trusted source for cap-related information.

It's an exciting time for the Washington Commanders as they make strategic moves to improve their roster ahead of the upcoming season. With Clelin Ferrell, Dante Fowler Jr, and Jeremy Chinn joining the team, fans can expect a fierce defense that will challenge opponents in the 2024 season.