Commanders' new offense under David Blough
Dan Quinn took a big risk by parting ways with Kliff Kingsbury when his vision for the offense no longer matched what the play-caller wanted to run. He took an even bigger gamble by promoting David Blough to replace him.
Blough is highly regarded across the league as a fast riser who could become a head coach in the not-too-distant future. The Washington Commanders moved swiftly to hold off strong interest from the Detroit Lions, believing they have found the innovative thinker to turn things up a notch.
While the former quarterback is inexperienced and has never called plays before, his designs have already been used by Kingsbury. And given how well received the system has been by players during Washington's early offseason program, Quinn might be onto something.
There will be more of quarterback Jayden Daniels under center. There will be a much better balance, with a greater focus on explosive plays. Blough is expected to use the tight end position heavily, and the ground game will be another strong element that could open up play action more effectively.
Obviously, Quinn will carry the can if it all goes wrong. But if it all goes well, Blough can expect some head-coaching interviews during the 2027 cycle.
Commanders 3-4 defensive front
As previously mentioned, the Commanders are projected to switch their defense to a 3-4 base front under new coordinator Daronte Jones. This will be interchangeable, depending on the down and situation, but the personnel is now in place to become more competitive.
Any success that comes Washington's way on defense will start in the trenches. If Jones deploys a system similar to Brian Flores's on the Minnesota Vikings, he needs his interior linemen to fill gaps, absorb double teams, and make it easier for the edge rushers or linebackers bringing pressure. Nothing else will suffice.
There are concerns about the options available. But they also have the talent and physical profile to improve dramatically within Jones' innovative scheme.
Daron Payne has all the motivation needed to excel in a contract year. Javon Kinlaw underachieved last season, but all hope is not lost just yet. Free-agent signing Tim Settle Jr. has some decent production as the nose tackle. Bigger things are also expected of third-year breakout candidate Johnny Newton, who's worked exceptionally hard over the offseason to develop his game and work on his body.
The Commanders' defensive front will set the tone. While expectations are relatively low right now, don't be shocked if this group performs much better than anticipated.
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