Washington Commanders Bring Back Guard Chris Paul on One-Year Deal

The Washington Commanders are keeping a key piece of their offensive line intact by bringing back guard Chris Paul for another season. The move aims to preserve stability in the trenches as the team looks to protect quarterback Jayden Daniels and make a push toward the playoffs.

Paul, 27, agreed to a one-year deal to return to Washington, a decision reported by NFL insider Jordan Schultz. The veteran expressed a desire to continue playing alongside left tackle Laremy Tunsil, emphasizing the chemistry he has developed with his teammates over the past seasons.

Originally drafted in the seventh round in 2022, Paul spent his rookie season as a backup before earning a starting role. Last season, he appeared in all 17 games, starting 15, solidifying his place as a cornerstone of the Commanders’ offensive front.

Despite some challenges in run blocking, Paul has demonstrated strong pass protection skills. His return provides the Commanders with a reliable veteran presence on the line as they aim for postseason success.

1. Career Growth and Role in Washington

Chris Paul’s rise with the Commanders has been steady since he joined the team as a late-round draft pick. Initially a backup, he impressed coaches enough to claim a starting guard spot by his third season. His familiarity with Washington’s system and teammates has made him a trusted contributor. In the 2025-26 season, Paul’s consistency was evident as he started 15 of 17 games. His presence on the line helped quarterback Jayden Daniels remain relatively secure in the pocket, highlighting Paul’s impact beyond the stat sheet. The decision to re-sign him signals the team’s commitment to continuity on the offensive line. Maintaining chemistry with key players, particularly left tackle Laremy Tunsil, is seen as critical for both pass protection and overall offensive cohesion. For Paul, the one-year contract is also an opportunity to continue developing his game, especially as he works to improve areas like run blocking, which were identified as weaknesses last season.

2. Strengths and Areas for Improvement

Statistically, Paul has shown significant promise in pass protection. Pro Football Focus (PFF) rated him with a 78.2 pass block grade last season, ranking fifth among 81 NFL guards. This proficiency is a key reason why Washington prioritized bringing him back. However, his run blocking grade of 38.2 was less impressive, lowering his overall PFF grade to 49.8. While effective in pass scenarios, improving his run-blocking technique remains a focal point for his development. Analysts note that another year with the Commanders’ coaching staff could help Paul refine his skills, particularly in creating running lanes for Washington’s backfield. His experience and understanding of the team’s system position him well for growth. If he succeeds in addressing these weaknesses, Paul could evolve into a more complete guard capable of anchoring the line for years to come. This season will serve as a crucial test for his all-around abilities.

3. Outlook and Team Strategy

With Paul back in the fold, expectations are that he will remain the Commanders’ starting left guard. His familiarity with the offense and proven pass protection skills make him a key component for quarterback Jayden Daniels’ success. That said, the Commanders’ roster strategy could shift depending on the 2026 NFL Draft. If the team selects a high-value guard prospect, competition for starting roles could emerge, potentially impacting Paul’s position. For now, however, the one-year deal suggests a vote of confidence in Paul’s ability to lead the line. His experience and chemistry with Tunsil provide the team with a veteran anchor as it aims to return to the playoffs. Ultimately, Paul’s return strengthens Washington’s offensive front, providing stability and experience at a position critical to both passing and running success.