Loser No. 3
Noah Igbinoghene - Commanders CB
The Washington Commanders' cornerback unit was a glaring frustration throughout Week 17. Whether it was largely down to the zone scheme is up for debate, but it's clear that a significant rethink is needed in this critical area of the field for Dan Quinn's squad to stand any chance of bouncing back in 2026.
Noah Igbinoghene did not have a good afternoon at the office. It was always going to be difficult against the high-octane Dallas Cowboys passing attack. Even so, his indifferent run support and lackluster coverage capabilities became his undoing in key moments.
The Commanders have a massive decision to make with Igbinoghene this offseason. Washington is going to make significant changes to its personnel. The former Auburn standout is out of contract, and this substandard effort is not going to do his chances of earning another deal when the time comes to decide his future.
Winner No. 3
Jacory Croskey-Merritt - Commanders WR
The Commanders didn't have Chris Rodriguez Jr. available after he sustained an illness in the hours leading up to the contest. Although disappointing, that left rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt with the opportunity to showcase what he can do from a prominent role.
It was a meteoric rise for the No. 245 overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft earlier this season. Croskey-Merritt tailed off significantly after that, but there have been signs of life down the stretch. He put that on full display once again against the Cowboys.
On another disappointing afternoon at the office overall, Croskey-Merritt quickly emerged as a shining light. The first-year pro only gained 11 carries throughout the contest as the Commanders chased down a deficit. Still, his 105 rushing yards and one highlight-reel touchdown represent a solid platform to potentially end the campaign on a high note in Week 18.
Croskey-Merritt has a bright future in Washington. This strong end to the campaign confirms it.
Loser No. 4
Frankie Luvu - Commanders LB
There is no doubting the supreme impact made by veteran linebacker Frankie Luvu during his first campaign with the Commanders. The ferocious second-level enforcer became a revelation on and off the field for his vibrant approach and fearless demeanor that his teammates fed off. Unfortunately, that hasn't been the case this time around.
Luvu's hasn't met the required standards this season. Dan Quinn's coaching staff needs to share some of the responsibility for putting him at edge rusher rather than off-ball linebacker. This isn't where the Washington State product is best suited, and he's struggled to find any rhythm during the campaign.
This was evident once again versus a Dallas offense that seemed to get whatever it wanted in critical moments. Luvu is unusually hesitant these days, and he also lacks the positional nuance to be in the correct position to make plays. That's a bad combination.