The Washington Commanders have made several roster moves following the conclusion of the 2025 NFL season, which ended on January 7, 2025. As part of the offseason strategy, the team signed three players to reserve/future contracts, a standard procedure for NFL teams during this period. These contracts enable players who finished the previous season on practice squads or as free agents to secure a spot for the upcoming training camp.
On January 9, 2025, the Commanders announced the signings of guard Tyler Cooper and wide receiver Nick Nash. The following day, the team added tight end Lawrence Cager to its roster. This move comes shortly after the franchise parted ways with coaches Kliff Kingsbury, Joe Whitt Jr, and Bobby Johnson, a decision that shifted focus toward strengthening the player lineup.
Lawrence Cager, a 6-foot-5, 220-pound tight end, brings experience from several NFL teams. He played college football at the University of Georgia and entered the league in 2020 with the New York Jets. Cager has also spent time with the Cleveland Browns, the Jets again in 2022, the New York Giants, and now the Commanders. Over his career, he has participated in 22 NFL games, including a recent matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles at Northwest Stadium.
Meanwhile, Nick Nash is a 6-foot-3, 195-pound wide receiver who initially went undrafted. He was signed by the Atlanta Falcons but was released after training camp in the previous season. His addition to the Commanders represents an opportunity to make an impact in a competitive roster.
Tyler Cooper, standing at 6 feet 5 inches and weighing 302 pounds, was previously signed to the Commanders’ practice squad in September 2024. After a brief stint with the Arizona Cardinals, who also added him to their practice squad, Cooper has returned to Washington, indicating the team’s continued interest in his potential.
These reserve/future contracts are typically one-year deals at the league minimum, with no guarantees. They allow the players to prepare for the offseason program while counting toward the 90-man roster limit and the salary cap for the next league year, which begins in March. This strategy not only provides the players with a secure pathway to training camp but also reflects the Commanders’ ongoing efforts to build a competitive team for the upcoming season.
The Commanders’ recent signings highlight their commitment to enhancing their roster as they move forward into the 2026 season. As the team navigates both player transitions and coaching changes, these moves will be crucial in shaping the team’s future.
