One of the more unpopular moves last summer by the Washington Commanders was the release of cornerback Jimmy Moreland. Washington cut Moreland on Aug. 31, before final cuts, to allow Moreland to land on another roster ahead of the 2021 season.
The Houston Texans claimed Moreland, and he spent the 2021 season in Houston. Moreland played in seven games and recorded two tackles. The Texans released Moreland on Friday.
The Washington Commanders could use cornerback depth. Should they consider a reunion with their former seventh-round pick, who played 30 games for the team in 2019 and 2020?
Last week, the Commanders had an opportunity to sign a more high-profile corner in James Bradberry but passed. Moreland would make more sense because he will not cost as much and provide quality depth, something he proved during his first two seasons.
Bradberry signed with the Eagles for around $10 million for the 2022 season. Washington already has two starting corners earning more than $10 million next season and needs depth more than anything.
As of now, Washington has Kendall Fuller, William Jackson III, Benjamin St-Juste, Corn Elder, Troy Apke and Christian Holmes at cornerback. Fuller and Jackson are the only proven two, although St-Juste showed promise as a rookie last season before concussions sidelined him.
The 5-foot-11 Moreland is only 26 years old. In his two seasons with Washington, he appeared in 30 games, making 10 starts, recording 86 tackles and one interception. The former James Madison Duke was known as “The People’s Corner” during his time with Washington.
No one is suggesting Moreland is some type of cornerback savior. But he fits the profile of what head coach Ron Rivera and general Martin Mayhew have looked for this offseason. Cheap, veteran help on short-term contract who can improve the depth and help immediately.
We expect the Commanders to add another corner, linebacker and defensive tackle ahead of training camp. All three positions need some depth. Rivera admitted the need for a veteran linebacker behind Cole Holcomb and Jamin Davis.
A reunion with Moreland makes sense for the Commanders.