Commanders Sign Edge Rusher K'Lavon Chaisson to $12M Deal, Strengthening Defense for 2026 Season
March 11, 2026
The Washington Commanders have agreed to a one-year, $12 million contract with edge rusher K’Lavon Chaisson, adding him after his season with the New England Patriots.
Chaisson, the 2020 first-round pick (No. 20 overall) by Jacksonville, has produced 17.5 sacks, 49 quarterback hits, 136 tackles, three forced fumbles, and one interception in 88 games (25 starts) across the Jaguars, Raiders, and Patriots.
His 2025 season with the Raiders earned him a one-year, $5 million deal with New England, during which he had 7.5 sacks in 10 games and helped propel the Patriots to a surprising Run toward Super Bowl 60.
The report notes follow-up social media posts and team pages for further updates on Chaisson and related signings.
Chaisson’s move reflects a broader league trend of boosting edge-rushing talent through free agency and the draft, a theme analysts highlighted around the Combine.
Washington’s offseason storyline emphasizes upgrading both offense with a pass-catching tight end and defense with versatile safeties as they shape the 2026 roster post-Erst era.
Chaisson’s addition complements Washington’s tight end group, joining a receiving corps that includes Okonkwo, Bates, Sinnott, Yankoff, and Cager, while addressing the need for a reliable playmaker.
Chig Okonkwo, a 2022 fourth-round pick of the Titans, has signed to bolster Washington’s offense as a move to pair with Chaisson’s arrival.
Nick Cross’s versatility at safety, with experience at multiple defensive roles, supports Washington’s defensive flexibility alongside Chaisson.”},{
Summary based on 11 sources
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Sources

The Athletic • Mar 11, 2026
Commanders add TE Chig Okonkwo and S Nick Cross, former Maryland teammates
Reuters • Mar 11, 2026
Report: Commanders signing LB K'Lavon Chaisson
AP News • Mar 11, 2026
Commanders are signing K'Lavon Chaisson and Leo Chenal, AP source says | AP News
Newsweek • Mar 11, 2026
K’Lavon Chaisson Agrees to Deal with Commanders