Frankie Luvu has taken an interesting path to the Washington Commanders. In 2018, Luvu was an undrafted free agent who signed with the New York Jets. He spent three seasons with the Jets, appearing in 40 games and making three starts.
In 2021, Luvu signed with the Carolina Panthers. While a lot hasn’t gone right in Carolina under owner David Tepper, Luvu was an exception. He played in 16 games with four starts in 2021 before becoming a full-time starter in 2022.
Over the last two seasons, Luvu combined to record 236 tackles, including 29 for loss, 12.5 sacks and three forced fumbles. His success with the Panthers led Washington to give him a three-year deal.
Luvu is set for a big role in head coach Dan Quinn’s defense. Luvu’s versatility and ability to rush the passer could lead to a big season for him in 2024.
How big? Jared Dubin of CBS Sports predicted one breakout player for all 32 teams in 2024. Luvu was his pick for the Commanders.
Luvu got a decent-sized contract in free agency, but it didn’t come near getting him into the top tier of off-ball linebacker salaries. In Dan Quinn’s defense, he has a chance to really shine as a versatile second-level playmaker — especially if Quinn gets creative with his abilities as a blitzer.
In some ways, you could say the 27-year-old Luvu has already broken out. However, he has an opportunity for so much more playing for Quinn and defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. Luvu could be Washington’s top pass rusher in 2024 and will compete with middle linebacker Bobby Wagner to lead the team in tackles.
Everyone is high on Luvu. He could be even better than many initially believed when the Commanders signed him.
