Commanders Sign DT Maurice Hurst Jr., Make Other Moves

Several veterans recently worked out for the Commanders. Maurice Hurst Jr. was among them, and the veteran defensive tackle is now in the fold.

Hurst signed with Washington on Tuesday, per a team announcement. The 31-year-old will now look to carve out a depth spot on the roster ahead of cutdowns later this month. Hurst was a regular for the Browns in 2023, but in his two most recent seasons (also in Cleveland) he totaled just 10 appearances. A healthy slate would be welcomed by team and player in this case.

The Commanders also confirmed the additions of running back Craig Reynolds and linebacker Krys Barnes. In addition, tight end Tre’ McKitty has signed a deal. Those veterans will have a short window of time to compete for a spot through the remainder of training camp and the preseason. Today’s news comes as defensive tackle Jer’Zhan Newton and linebacker Jordan Magee are dealing with undisclosed injuries (as noted by ESPN’s John Keim). Hurst and Barnes will look to provide depth in their place while Washington awaits a recovery timeline.

Tuesday also brought confirmation that kicker Jake Moody‘s time in the nation’s capital has come to an end. A poor showing in training camp has led to Washington moving on and leaving undrafted rookie Drew Stevens as the winner of the team’s kicking competition. The punter position has now seen a similar development, with Matt Haack being released. The veteran of 110 games signed with Washington late in July, but with his tenure being cut short Tress Way remains as the Commanders’ only punter.

River Cracraft made a pair of appearances with Washington last season, but that will not be repeated in 2026. The ninth-year receiver was moved to injured reserve on Tuesday, ending his campaign before it began. The same is also true of running back Jerome Ford. The former Brown will no longer be in the mix for a spot in the Commanders’ reshaped backfield as a result. Ford’s injury helps explain the Reynolds signing, while the statues of Newton and Magee will be worth watching in the wake of today’s other moves.