Story perspectives

Commanders Sign Boogie Basham, Cut Will Harris

8/25/2026

Summary

Commanders Bolster Pass Rush

Washington Commanders signed outside linebacker Boogie Basham on Tuesday.
The team released safeties Will Harris and Malik Spencer.
Washington placed linebacker Drake Jackson on season-ending injured reserve with a hamstring injury.
The moves aim to improve the pass rush as Washington pursues its first NFC East title since 2020.
Washington also signed safeties Joshuah Bledsoe and Quindell Johnson for depth.

Summary

Lions Ground Dominance

Lions won their home preseason game, attracting 50,042 fans.
Detroit rushed for 169 yards on 35 carries, a 4.8-yard average.
Commanders managed only 35 rushing yards, underscoring Detroit’s ground dominance.
Rookie EDGE Derrick Moore recorded a strip-sack on Sam Hartman.
Free-agent DJ Wonnum sacked Jayden Daniels on Detroit’s first defensive snap.

History

Historical Context

In 1994 the NFL instituted a $34.6 million salary cap, compelling the Washington Redskins to slash payroll and reshuffle their roster dramatically. The cap forced the Redskins to release veteran safety Brad Edwards and sign free-agent linebacker Ken Harvey, saving roughly $2 million in salaries. Similarly, the 2024 Washington Commanders released safeties Will Harris and Malik Spencer, then signed Boogie Basham to chase their first NFC East crown since 2020. These roster adjustments illustrate how salary-cap pressures and competitive ambitions repeatedly drive Washington franchises to overhaul defenses, shaping future playoff prospects.

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Commanders Bolster Pass Rush

Washington Commanders signed outside linebacker Boogie Basham on Tuesday.
The team released safeties Will Harris and Malik Spencer.
Washington placed linebacker Drake Jackson on season-ending injured reserve with a hamstring injury.
The moves aim to improve the pass rush as Washington pursues its first NFC East title since 2020.
Washington also signed safeties Joshuah Bledsoe and Quindell Johnson for depth.

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