Preston Smith Returns to Washington: Latest Moves, Career Updates, and What to Expect

Veteran pass rusher Preston Smith is making headlines this week after rejoining the Washington Commanders. Dive into his career history, recent performance, the impact of his return, and what this means for the upcoming season.

Preston Smith Returns to the Washington Commanders

Preston Smith, a veteran edge rusher in the NFL, has officially signed back with the Washington Commanders. This marks a full-circle moment in his career: Washington was the team that drafted him in the second round back in 2015. After several seasons with other teams, including the Packers and Steelers, Smith’s return to Washington comes amid significant defensive changes under the coaching staff and injuries on the roster that required additional pass-rush help. His signing signals both Washington’s intent to bolster its defensive front and Smith’s desire to reestablish his impact in a familiar setting.

Who Is Preston Smith?

Preston Smith was born November 17, 1992, in Atlanta, Georgia. He played college football at Mississippi State, where he earned First-Team All-SEC honors before entering the NFL draft. Washington selected him in the second round in 2015. Over the years, he has built a reputation as a reliable, experienced pass rusher capable of producing sacks, pressures, and contributing to run defense. As of the 2024 season, his career statistics include more than 70 sacks across over 160 games, plus multiple forced fumbles and other defensive impact plays.

Recent Performance and Challenges

Leading into the offseason, Smith’s recent seasons have been mixed. In 2024, he split time between the Green Bay Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers. His production had dipped compared to peak years, with fewer sacks and more rotational snaps rather than being a full-time starter. He faced scheme fit challenges, particularly when used in roles that did not align with his strengths. In Pittsburgh, some games saw him more in a supporting role rather than a centerpiece of the pass rush. These challenges, however, did not erase his experience, veteran insight, or ability to perform when called upon.

Why Washington Brought Him Back

Washington’s decision to re-sign Smith makes strategic sense on several levels. First, injuries in the defensive line exposed depth issues. A key defensive end is currently unavailable, and Washington needs rotation players who can get after the quarterback. Smith offers proven ability in that role. Second, Smith’s familiarity with Washington—knowing the culture, expectations, and having history with coaches—helps reduce the adjustment period. Third, with a coaching staff that is emphasizing improved pass rush, Smith provides mentorship to younger edge players and helps lift the overall defensive unit.

Contract and Roster Implications

The deal that brings Smith back includes taking on a pass-rush role rather than being the centerpiece. He is likely to be part of a rotation to preserve health and maximize effectiveness. Washington also made other roster moves to clear space and adjust for injuries elsewhere on the defense. Bringing in Smith means balancing between older veterans and rising talent, ensuring both performance and future planning. For Washington, league rules around cap space, roster limits, and game-day activation mean every signing and cut matters.

What This Means for Washington’s Defense

With Smith’s return, Washington’s defensive front is looking more robust. He will join a complement of defensive ends and tackles, some of whom are younger players still developing in the NFL. Adding veteran edge pressure helps in multiple ways: it can reduce the load on interior linemen, improve rush lanes, help on third-down pressure, and create opportunities for turnovers. Smith’s ability to set the edge and use his experience to recognize offensive schemes will also be a boost in both run defense and pass rush situations.

Smith’s Career Highlights So Far

Over his NFL tenure, Smith has had several standout moments. He has had seasons with double-digit sack totals, multiple forced fumbles, and impactful plays in key games. His leadership in the locker room, work ethic, and consistency have earned him respect. While statistics sometimes fluctuate season to season, Smith’s durability and ability to adapt to different defensive schemes have kept him in the league. These achievements give reason for optimism among Washington fans that he can return to being a difference-maker.

Strengths and What He Brings

Preston Smith's strengths are many. He has good length, understands leverage, and uses his hands effectively when rushing the passer. He has shown ability in pursuit and on stunts. Beyond physical tools, his experience allows him to anticipate offensive blocking schemes, contributing to better positioning and pressure. He also brings a veteran’s mentality—knowledge of what it takes in film study, practice, and preparation, which can help younger players around him improve.

Areas of Concern and What To Watch

While Smith has many positives, there are areas to monitor. His recent decline in sacks and lessened snap counts suggest his peak pass-rush productivity may be behind him. Injuries and age are inevitable factors. He may not have the same burst or agility he once had, meaning Washington will need to use him in ways that play to his strengths, avoid overuse, and protect him on passing downs. Another concern is scheme fit; Washington must ensure its defensive coaching maximizes what Smith does well and does not misapply him in gaps where younger, quicker edge rushers would excel more.

Impact on Team Culture and Leadership

Veteran players like Smith often have influence beyond plays on the field. His return can bolster team culture—mentoring younger teammates, leading by example in meetings and film study, helping with in-game adjustments. His history with Washington gives him credibility. In a defense undergoing coaching shifts and trying to improve consistency, having a veteran edge capable of helping both on and off the field is significant. It’s not just about what he does on Sundays; it’s about helping build a more resilient, disciplined defense.

How This Might Affect Other Players

Smith’s arrival will likely shift roles for other edge rushers and defensive ends. Players who filled in during his absence may see reduced snaps or be rotated more heavily. On the other hand, his presence can open up opportunities for others: for example, he can draw attention from opposing offensive lines, freeing up blitzes or creating one-on-one matchups that benefit younger pass rushers. It might also prompt competition in practice and in games, pushing everyone to improve.

Season Outlook: What to Expect from Smith in 2025

For Smith, the 2025 season will likely be about impact rather than stats. He may not reach double-digit sack totals, but expectations are he will contribute in key moments—third downs, critical late-game pass rushes, situational pressures. If used well in a rotation, he can stay fresh, avoid fatigue, and still make big plays. His performance will also be a signal of Washington’s defensive health and stability. If Washington’s defensive front holds up, Smith’s return could be one of the stories of the season—not because of gaudy numbers but because of veteran stability and leadership.

Why This Move Matters in the Wider NFL Landscape

Preston Smith’s return to Washington underscores several trends in the league. First, veteran pass rushers remain valuable even when their peak speed or sack numbers decline; their experience, leadership, and situational effectiveness matter. Second, teams with defensive injuries are increasingly turning to known, reliable players rather than untested rookies to fill gaps. Third, this move shows that past connections (drafted by Washington, history with the city) can still factor into team decision making. In a free agency environment often driven by younger players and new faces, this is a reminder of history and continuity.

Fan Reactions and Media Buzz

The signing has been met with interest among Commanders fans. Many see it as a smart move to shore up a defense that showed vulnerability in pass rush in recent seasons. Media commentary focuses on whether Smith still has gas in the tank but also praise for the leadership and experience he brings. Analysts are debating how many snaps he will see, how much he will be used in obvious pass-rush situations, and whether Washington’s defensive scheme under its current coaching staff will let him do what he does best.

Conclusion

Preston Smith’s return to the Washington Commanders marks a significant moment in his career and for the team alike. While he may not be the young prodigy he once was, his strengths—experience, pass rush technique, leadership, and situational play—still make him a valuable asset. Washington needed depth and proven pass-rush ability, and Smith fits that mold. For Smith, the 2025 season offers a chance to reaffirm his relevance in the league, contribute in meaningful ways, and perhaps redefine what a veteran edge rusher looks like in his early 30s. Fans, teammates, and analysts will be watching closely as he steps back onto the field wearing a uniform he once donned as a rookie, looking to make new memories and help Washington reach new heights.