The Washington Commanders are in the midst of substantial changes. Nobody expected anything less after a 5-12 campaign that began with projections of another deep playoff run. And there will be even more twists to come before on-field preparations for the 2026 season gather pace.
Head coach Dan Quinn parted ways with both coordinators. He's promoted David Blough to replace Kliff Kingsbury, which is a gamble. Looking at the candidates being interviewed for the defensive side, the Commanders are clearly seeking someone with experience as an NFL play-caller.
That will have a ripple effect on the playing personnel side. New coaches have different schemes. They have different ideas regarding personnel. And aside from a select few cornerstone pieces, everyone else should be nervously looking over their shoulders.
General manager Adam Peters knows the hard work ahead. There are some difficult decisions upcoming, and not every move will be met with widespread approval. Outside opinions are irrelevant; what matters is an aligned vision in the building and doing what's best to take the franchise forward after such a disastrous year.
Some free agents won't come back. Don't be surprised if a few players who are under contract suffer the same fate, either.
With this in mind, here are five Commanders players under contract whose jobs might not last until OTAs.
Commanders players under contract whose jobs may not last until OTAs
Quan Martin - Commanders S
It's hard to put into words just how disappointing Quan Martin's third season with the Washington Commanders became. The talented safety was widely projected to have a breakout campaign after demonstrating legitimate growth in 2024. General manager Adam Peters was expecting the same after letting Jeremy Chinn leave for the Las Vegas Raiders in free agency.
These responsibilities were too much for Martin to handle. He struggled to be nearly as impactful without Chinn by his side. The cracks appeared early and only grew larger. And by season's end, the former Illinois standout was reduced to a fringe presence after too many glaring errors in key moments.
Quinn expressed confidence in Martin, but his actions said otherwise. The Commanders need a complete defensive overhaul this offseason, and very few will be spared. Much will depend on what the new coordinator plans to do once hired. Still, it wouldn't be surprising to see the 2023 second-round pick's name on the chopping block when push comes to shove.
Martin may benefit from a change of scenery. If the Commanders can find the correct replacement, it might arrive before his rookie contract expires in 2027.