The Washington Commanders are grappling with a significant void in their defensive front after releasing Jonathan Allen and missing out on acquiring Myles Garrett from the Cleveland Browns. Analysts believe that without a premier pass rusher, Washington's aspirations to elevate from playoff contenders to Super Bowl contenders have been jeopardized. While Garrett's record-breaking contract solidifies his status in Cleveland, the Commanders are now looking elsewhere to fill Allen's shoes.

With Garrett off the table, the Commanders are considering alternatives such as Cincinnati Bengals' Trey Hendrickson, who has impressed as an All-Pro, and veteran options in free agency like Joey Bosa, Khalil Mack, and Von Miller. However, these players are all over 30, which raises concerns about their long-term viability. The upcoming NFL draft could provide younger prospects, but the team must hope that key players fall to them at the 29th pick.