Commanders Make Surprising Move by Signing Former Broncos Star Defender—What It Means for the Season

Has anyone else been scratching their head this season watching the Washington Commanders? Just last year, they were storming their way to the NFC Championship, and now… well, let’s just say the playoff picture looks murkier than a foggy Landover morning. Injuries have gnawed at their offense like a pesky squirrel, and the defense? Let’s just say it’s been more sieve than fortress. So, when the team snaps up veteran pass rusher DeMarcus Walker—who’s been around the block but not exactly lighting up scoreboards lately—you can’t help but wonder: Is this savvy depth-building or just rearranging deck chairs on a listing ship? With looming suspensions and playoff hopes hanging by a thread, Washington’s maneuvering in the free agent market might be their last best shot at turning this rollercoaster of a season around.

LANDOVER, MARYLAND - NOVEMBER 09: Josh Conerly Jr. #72 and Deebo Samuel #1 of the Washington Commanders celebrate after his receiving touchdown against the Detroit Lions in the third quarter of a game at Northwest Stadium on November 09, 2025 in Landover, Maryland. — (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images)

To say that the Washington Commanders‘ season has been a massive disappointment wouldn’t tell half of the story. They went from making it to the NFC Championship Game to probably not making the playoffs.

A lot has been said of Jayden Daniels’ injuries and potential regression at quarterback, and rightfully so. Injuries to others, including wide receiver Terry McLaurin, have also handcuffed their once-explosive offense.

Nevertheless, their defense hasn’t been good at all. It ranks near the bottom of the league in most categories, and that unit is primarily responsible for their struggles.

Looking to improve, the Commanders have signed former Denver Broncos defender DeMarcus Walker.

“Commanders add a pass rusher to the practice squad. Walker is a former second-round pick by the Broncos (in 2017),” Nicki Jhabvala posted on X.

Commanders add a pass rusher to the practice squad. Walker is a former second-round pick by the Broncos. https://t.co/4iF7TJc7om

— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) November 11, 2025

The veteran defensive lineman won’t give the team the influx of young talent it needs. However, with Daron Payne facing a one-game suspension for punching Detroit Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown in Week 10, they might need the depth.

Walker started all 17 games for the Chicago Bears last season, logging 47 combined tackles and 3.5 sacks. Yet, he didn’t draw much interest on the open market.

Walker reportedly traveled to Spain with the Commanders for their Week 11 game, so he could be activated to face the Miami Dolphins. With Washington looking to build momentum amid a very disappointing campaign, it should continue to stay active in the free agent market to try to find solutions.

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