Shy Tuttle released, but his Commanders career isn’t over

Shy Tuttle is being released by the Washington Commanders, but the veteran defensive tackle’s departure isn’t expected to last long.

Washington is releasing Tuttle as part of its roster maneuvering ahead of the regular season, with plans to bring him back for Week 1, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. 

The move allows the Commanders additional flexibility as they finalize their initial 53-man roster. While Tuttle will temporarily become a free agent, Washington’s reported intention to re-sign him suggests the organization still views the 30-year-old as part of its defensive plans.

Tuttle joined Washington late last season after beginning 2025 with the Tennessee Titans. He appeared in 10 games for Tennessee, making one start and recording 11 tackles and one tackle for loss before being released in December.

Washington claimed him off waivers, and Tuttle appeared in the Commanders’ final two regular-season games, registering four tackles. 

The Commanders elected to keep Tuttle in their plans during the offseason, signing him to an extension in March. 

Tuttle provides Washington with something every defensive line needs: experience.

The former Tennessee standout entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the New Orleans Saints in 2019 and developed into a dependable interior defender. He spent four seasons with New Orleans before signing with the Carolina Panthers in 2023.

Week 1 return is already in the works

Entering the 2026 season, Tuttle has appeared in 107 career games with 66 starts. He has accumulated 247 tackles, 4.5 sacks, 11 tackles for loss, 10 quarterback hits, three fumble recoveries, two forced fumbles and an interception. 

His ability to occupy blockers and provide veteran depth could remain valuable for Washington as it works through its defensive line rotation.

For now, Tuttle is officially leaving the Commanders.

But unlike many players receiving difficult news during final roster cuts, Tuttle reportedly already has a path back.

If Washington’s plan unfolds as expected, the veteran defensive tackle should be back with the Commanders when the regular season begins.

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