With the departure of Carson Wentz shortly after the season and Taylor Heinicke early in free agency, it was evident that the Washington Commanders needed to make moves to fill in their quarterback depth. They accomplished that on Wednesday with the signing of former Cleveland Browns quarterback Jacoby Brissett.
The Commanders are acquiring him on a one-year deal worth up to $10 million and $8 million guaranteed. The assumption is Brissett will back up Sam Howell but truthfully this signing could create a competition for the starting role. In the end, the final result will boil down to who is a better fit for Eric Bieniemy’s system.
Brissett brings a veteran presence to the Commanders locker room, starting 48 games over seven NFL seasons with the New England Patriots, Indianapolis Colts, Miami Dolphins, and Cleveland Browns.
Most recently, Brissett started for the Browns while Deshaun Watson served his 11-game suspension in 2022. Last season, he completed 64% of his passes for 2,608 yards, 12 touchdowns and six interceptions, also rushing for 243 yards and two more scores.
The Browns went 4-7 with Brissett as a starter. Despite their record, Brissett led Cleveland to the No. 6 spot in the league in offensive efficiency. That speaks volumes to his production under center.
The Commanders have been very methodical with their free agency moves starting with resigning Daron Payne. Other than that, they haven’t made a big splash but they are handling business where the need resides.