Drake Jackson‘s in-season free agent tour has resulted in a deal. The previous second-round defensive end is signing with the Commanders, per agent Drew Rosenhaus (via ESPN’s Adam Schefter).
Jackson is being added to the energetic roster, a slight deviation from standard practice regarding mid-week signings. Players in that position often join a taxi squad before being elevated to the roster. Jackson will look to make a right away impact with Washington as he attempts to avoid any further injury troubles.
The 24-year-old played 15 games as a rookie, but a torn patellar tear limited him to eight games the next season. Jackson then missed the entire 2024 campaign while continuing to recuperate. The 49ers elected to maneuver on this spring, but Jackson is now healthy. Visits with the Commanders, Jets and Ravens were lined up recently in consequence. An agreement has been worked out in brief order.
It comes as little surprise Jackson has elected to go to the nation’s capital. Commanders general manager Adam Peters was within the 49ers’ front office when the USC product was drafted, making him a well-recognized face. Jackson notched three sacks in each of his first two campaigns, recording more pressures (eight) in his shortened 2023 season than he did in 15 contests (seven) as a rookie. Continued development when it comes to production and efficiency as a pass rusher would supply Washington with a cheap option along the sting to shut out the season.
The Commanders have posted 18 sacks through six games, good for sixth within the NFL in that regard. Jackson will join a gaggle lead by Dorance Armstrong, Von Miller and hybrid linebacker/edge rusher Frankie Luvu. If he manages to offer the 3-3 team with part-time production down the stretch, a notable free agent market may very well be in store through the spring.