Remember when everyone doubted the Commanders last season? Jayden Daniels didn’t get the memo! After a stunning run to the NFC Championship, Washington is ready to prove it wasn’t a fluke. Can this young squad and revamped roster take the next step to Super Bowl contention?
The Washington Commanders, led by their phenomenal young quarterback Jayden Daniels, are poised to build upon last season’s unexpected journey to the NFC Championship game. Their remarkable 12-5 regular-season record and subsequent deep playoff run, the most significant since their 1991 Super Bowl triumph, captivated fans and critics alike, signaling a powerful resurgence for the franchise.
Much of this stunning turnaround can be attributed to Jayden Daniels’ electrifying performance, which earned him the prestigious AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award. Daniels, a 2023 Heisman Trophy winner, redefined the dual-threat quarterback role, setting a rookie QB rushing record with an impressive 891 yards and demonstrating remarkable efficiency by completing 69% of his passes for 3,568 yards and 25 touchdowns.
The synergy between Daniels and his primary target, wide receiver Terry McLaurin, proved critical, despite McLaurin missing a significant portion of training camp due to a contract dispute. His eventual extension, signed just weeks before the season opener, solidified a crucial partnership that consistently moved the chains and provided vital scoring opportunities for the Commanders offense.
Recognizing the importance of supporting their burgeoning star quarterback, the front office made aggressive moves to fortify the roster. Key acquisitions included trading for veteran left tackle Laremy Tunsil and dynamic wide receiver Deebo Samuel, alongside drafting first-round tackle Josh Conerly Jr., all designed to provide Daniels with improved protection and additional offensive firepower.
The defensive unit also saw significant enhancements, adding experienced talent to bolster its ranks. Lineman Javon Kinlaw, pass rusher Von Miller, and second-round cornerback Trey Amos joined the squad, aiming to strengthen an already capable defense. A rebound season from four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore and a productive Terry McLaurin are considered pivotal for sustained success.
While the team demonstrated a remarkable ability to win close contests last season, achieving a 9-4 record in one-score games, replicating this clutch performance will be essential. However, concerns remain regarding the depth at wide receiver beyond McLaurin and Samuel, with Noah Brown’s knee injury impacting his availability after an injury-plagued previous season.
Special teams also present a question mark, despite the acquisition of kicker Gay, known for once signing a record contract. His past inconsistency from long range led to his release from a previous team, raising doubts about this critical unit’s stability. Furthermore, the roster’s age, with over a dozen players aged 30 or older, introduces potential concerns about long-term durability and future development.
In the backfield, rookie seventh-round pick Croskey-Merritt’s impressive explosiveness during camp led to the trade of Robinson. He now joins a committee alongside the versatile Austin Ekeler, bruising third-year running back Chris Rodriguez, and Jeremy McNichols, as they collectively aim to establish a dominant ground game, awaiting a clear lead back to emerge.
