NFL
Season Outlook:
The Commanders went from the NFC Championship in 2024 to a 5-12 last-place finish in 2025. The difference was the condition of their start quarterback. After a sensational rookie year, Jayden Daniels missed nine games and an aging supporting cast couldn’t build momentum. It goes without saying that Dan Quinn needs No. 5 to be available if Washington wants to bounce back. He hopes new personnel can drive a turnaround.
What's Changed:
Washington has been active in free agency, even into training camp. The Commanders acquired Odafe Oweh and K'Lavon Chaisson to improve their pass rush. They also got tight end Chig Okonkwo from Tennessee and then signed ex-Patriot Stefon Diggs in August. More defensive reinforcements came when they used the seventh overall draft pick to select Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles. New and old players will hear different voices on both sides with David Blough and Daronte Jones brought in as coordinators.
Bigger Role & Sophomore Breakout:
Okonkwo will be the featured tight end. Although Zach Ertz is cleared to return after a severe ACL tear late last year, the primary option will be given to the former Titan. Okonkwo had at least 450 receiving yards in each of his four seasons. Trey Amos showed encouraging signs before a broken leg ended his rookie year in Week 10. He'll open camp on the PUP list, but a healthy return could build on that progress.
Key Question:
What will the offensive line look like? Jayden Daniels’ health is predicated on those who protect him. The loss of Laremy Tunsil to a triceps injury may linger if they can’t find an adequate replacement on the field and in the locker room. Brandon Coleman may be the man to fill his spot on the depth chart. Center has also become a spot of concern with Nick Allegretti missing time.
Prediction:
Washington doesn't have enough talent around Daniels yet to get back to the playoffs. The Commanders go 7-10 and finish third in the division, which will lead to the dismissal of Dan Quinn. Styles has a solid first season and makes a case for Defensive Rookie of the Year. Daniels stays relatively healthy but injuries still catch up to him. The presence of Diggs can still help him get over 3,000 passing yards.
X-Factor:
The addition of Stefon Diggs is much needed. Beyond him and Terry McClaurin, the receiver room doesn’t scare opposing defenses. With the Pats, Diggs made 85 catches for 1,013 yards and four touchdowns and generated 363 yards after the catch. This sets up to be a solid 1-2 duo for Daniels, but McClaurin hasn’t been particularly reliable of late – missing seven games in 2025.
Final Scorecard:
- Offense: 7
- Defense: 6
- Coaching: 5
- X-Factor Upside: 8
- Schedule Strength: 6