Commanders agree to a deal with 2022 All-Pro special teams player Jeremy Reaves, AP source says

WASHINGTON (AP) — Although plenty of changes are coming to the Washington Commanders, they're bringing back a valuable player and a popular teammate who's looking to return to form after a season-ending injury.

The team agreed to a two-year contract with safety and 2022 All-Pro special teams player Jeremy Reaves, according to a person familiar with the deal. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Wednesday because the team has not yet announced it.

Among several social media posts, Reaves said he has been smiling ear to ear since getting the new contract. He added: “Commanders fans, I’m glad to be coming back HOME!” I got unfinished business!"

Part of that unfinished business is getting back on the field after partially tearing the ACL in his left knee on a punt return Oct. 5 during Washington's fifth game last season. He went on injured reserve and did not return.

Reaves, who turns 27 on Aug. 29, is the first player from the previous regime to be brought back by new general manager Adam Peters.

With some of the most salary cap space to spend of any team, Washington has been busy since NFL free agency opened, agreeing to deals with running back Austin Ekeler, veteran backup quarterback Marcus Mariota and several others. The Commanders also signed Super Bowl-winning tight end Zach Ertz to a deal for next season, selling him on their plan under new coach Dan Quinn and offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury.

"These are guys that I truly believe are going to build long-term success at this place," Ertz said on a video call with reporters Tuesday. “I’m extremely excited to get back in (Kingsbury's) offense and also just help this team, help this organization kind of build success from the ground up.”

The building is just beginning with the second pick in the draft and the opportunity to get one of the top three QB prospects available: USC's Caleb Williams, North Carolina's Drake Maye or LSU's Heisman Trophy winner, Jayden Daniels.

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