The Washington Commanders are reuniting with a familiar face. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the team is signing veteran defensive end/linebacker Preston Smith.
Reunion: Veteran edge rusher Preston Smith is signing with the #Commanders, sources tell The Insiders.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) September 17, 2025
A second-round pick in 2015, Smith spent four seasons in Washington before landing a big free agent deal in Green Bay. Now he’s back and can add to his 70.5 career sacks. pic.twitter.com/v3l7FrA5Vo
Smith, 32, was originally drafted by Washington in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft. During his first four seasons with the team, the 6-foot-5, 265-pound edge rusher appeared in all 64 games, starting 50, and totaled 168 tackles (29 for loss), 24.5 sacks, four interceptions, and four forced fumbles.
After signing with the Green Bay Packers in 2019, Smith became a key part of their defense for five and a half seasons before being traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers at last year’s trade deadline. Across 10 NFL seasons, he has played 163 games (138 starts) and recorded 443 tackles, 70.5 sacks, 74 tackles for loss, 10 forced fumbles, and five interceptions.
Smith’s return comes as Washington looks to reinforce a defensive line that lost Deatrich Wise for the season due to a torn quad. The Commanders also promoted defensive end Jalyn Holmes from the practice squad and placed veteran cornerback Jonathan Jones on injured reserve after last week’s loss. With just four healthy cornerbacks on the roster, Washington could elevate another defensive back for game-day depth.
Known for his strong run defense and steady pass-rush ability, Smith remains productive — he posted eight sacks in 2023 — and should give Washington an immediate boost on the edge.
