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Commanders Chris Paul 'excited, honored to be back with my brothers'
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- Commanders Chris Paul 'excited, honored to be back with my brothers'
"I'm just really excited and really honored to be back with my brothers."
That was Washington guard Chris Paul expressing how he feels to the media about his signing to be a Commander again in 2026. Paul drafted in 2022, the first draft class for the " Commanders ," played out his rookie contract, became a free agent, and was the subject of several reports that he would hit it big with another team signing him for a huge pay raise.
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That type of contract actually never materialized for Paul, who chose last Friday to go ahead and return to the Commanders on a one-year deal. When asked about his offers from other teams, Paul didn't provide any specifics, instead choosing to talk only about his career, his process, and returning to the Commanders. Paul did express that there were offers from other teams, but he was always leaning toward returning and staying a Commander.
"I think most importantly as a player, I believe that I am just scratching the surface of what I can be. I personally would just always be looking for ways that I individually can improve."
Regarding other teams? Paul did provide that there was actually nothing negative from other teams he received. "I am excited to keep getting more opportunities and keep putting my best foot forward." Paul did express that there were offers from other teams, but he was always leaning toward returning and staying a Commander.
As for 2026, Paul was not hesitant to convey he is looking forward to David Blough's offense, getting with his coaches soon, and being brought up to speed, as they head toward off-season workouts. He also made it clear he has not been guaranteed the starting left guard spot, though he started the final 15 games in 2025. "What I know about this organization is we are all about competition, competition, competition, and that's all they emphasize. So, that is the mindset heading into everything."
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Left tackle Laremy Tunsil has publicly praised Paul for his growth and commitment during the 2026 season. Paul and Tunsil have also expressed mutual respect for each other as leaders and for how they are good for the Commanders' locker room. No financial details of Paul's deal, such as salary or salary cap hit for 2026, have been released by the Commanders.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: Chris Paul explains why he re-signed
