After just two seasons in the nation’s capital with the Washington Commanders, former Alabama Crimson Tide DL Phidarian Mathis will have a new home for the remainder of the 2024 season after being released Friday evening. The former second-round pick has appeared in 12 games for the Commanders this season, so the release comes as a bit of a surprise, but the belief is they are trying to open a roster spot for star DL Jonathan Allen, who’s set to return from the IR for the post-season.

Mathis only had 17 tackles on the year with Washington in 12 games, but he should have several suitors on the market with the start of the playoffs right around the corner. At 6’4 and 312 pounds, he is a great depth piece for any defense trying to make a Super Bowl run, but never quite lived up to the second round billing.

Former Alabama players have typically faired pretty well for the Commanders with Brian Robinson, Daron Payne and Allen still on the active roster. At 10-5 on the year, Washington looks like they’ll make their first Playoff appearance since 2020 and they have not won a Playoff game since the 2005 season.

The #Commanders are waiving DL Phidarian Mathis, sources say, putting the former second-rounder on waivers.

A potential add for a playoff team looking for depth up-front, Mathis could get claimed. pic.twitter.com/Sq0sLcM1x1

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 28, 2024

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