Last season, the Washington Commanders had a terrible run with their season and finished just 4-12. They had a significant disadvantage in making it far, given the challenges they faced with injuries to key players left and right, especially their quarterback, Jayden Daniels. He was out for the majority of the season, making the team rely on their backup quarterbacks, Marcus Mariota and Josh Johnson. While both did their best and were okay, they don’t bring the dynamic aspects to the offense that Daniels does.
Daniels was the highest-profile player out, but other key players were injured, which took a toll on their offense. Wide receivers Terry McLauren and Luke McAffrey missed 8 games, and tight end Zack Ertz missed the final 4 games, and they lost running back Austin Eckler in game 2 to a season-ending injury. All of this made the season a huge disappointment after the 2024 team made it all the way to the NFC Championship game. So, what will 2026 bring?
For the Commanders, the biggest hope for them is having a healthier team. If players like Daniels and their main offensive weapons, like McLauren, can stay on the field, the offense should look much stronger. The team will also improve through the NFL draft. With the 7th overall pick, they have the chance to add a good player who could help fill one of their biggest needs. According to mock drafts from sources like Hogshaven and USA Today writer Jacob Camenker, players such as safety Caleb Downs or linebacker Sonny Styles from Ohio State could be good fits for Washington. These players are seen as impact defenders who could immediately improve the team by adding speed, strength, and versatility to their defense.
The Commanders have already improved and could continue to improve through free agency by bringing in experienced players to make their roster stronger. So far this offseason, they have signed linebacker K’Lavon Chaisson to a one-year, $12 million deal, tight end Chig Okonkwo to a three-year deal worth up to $30 million, and safety Nick Cross to a two-year, $14 million contract, according to Reuters. They also added linebacker Leo Chenal and defensive end Odafe Oweh to strengthen their defense. These signings show that the team is trying to build a more competitive and balanced roster.
Coaching changes will also play a big role in how the team performs. Head coach Dan Quinn made major adjustments by moving on from offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury and defensive coordinator Joe Whitt, Jr. David Blough was promoted to offensive coordinator, and Daronte Jones was brought in as the new defensive coordinator. These changes could help the team by bringing in new strategies and improving both sides of the ball, especially after their struggles last season
The Commanders have already improved through free agency by bringing in experienced players who should make their roster stronger. Overall, if the Commanders stay healthy and make smart decisions with their draft picks as they have with their free agent signings, 2026 could be a big bounce-back year for the team.
