Commanders release veteran safety Will Harris as their secondary takes shape

Washington Commanders released veteran safety Will Harris on Tuesday, concluding his first and only season with the team. Harris, who signed a two-year, $8 million contract in March 2025, appeared in just nine games last season, tallying 38 tackles, one sack, one forced fumble and no interceptions due to a fractured fibula. The Commanders' secondary took shape as they signed three replacement players: linebacker Boogie Basham, safeties Joshuah Bledsoe and Quindell Johnson.

Harris was demoted to the third-string unit after former Indianapolis Colts safety Nick Cross joined the team in March. Quarterback Joshua Dobbs' 50-yard touchdown run, which Harris failed to cover, underscored the safety's ineffective performance. Coach Dan Quinn highlighted rookie safety Quan Martin's intensity and urgency, noting his strong preseason play.

Martin, who was on the roster bubble, has likely secured his roster spot, bolstered by his interceptions in the first two preseason games. Tyler Owens and Percy Butler, two other key special teamers, would fill out the safety position alongside Martin, Nick Cross and Jeremy Reaves.