Quan Martin - Commanders S
Washington Commanders fans were expecting a genuine breakout campaign from standout safety Quan Martin this season. He took a significant step forward as an NFL sophomore, forming a dynamic tandem on the back end with Jeremy Chinn to cement his status as a potentially core part of the team's long-term strategy.
It's early days, but Martin hasn't yet met these raised expectations. The defensive back is missing Chinn's presence. He's struggling to provide adequate support in coverage, and he's already logged five missed tackles through four games.
Martin's 40.1 overall grade from Pro Football Focus ranks 123rd out of 128 qualifying safeties. The Commanders haven't had much stability alongside him, especially after Will Harris went out through injury. That's placed even more on the Illinois product's shoulders, and he hasn't been able to meet the required standards.
This is mildly concerning, but fans shouldn't write Martin off completely. He proved how influential he can be last season. Things haven't quite clicked as yet, so finding the right solutions to play to his strengths is something defensive Joe Whitt Jr. and his staff must figure out quickly.
Anything less, and Martin could be forced into a prove-it scenario in the final year of his deal in 2026.
Johnny Newton - Commanders DL
The Commanders brought Johnny Newton along gradually last season. Their second-round pick endured a turbulent summer after foot surgery, and he became nothing more than a rotational piece during his first season in a professional environment.
There was no need to panic. Even so, the spotlight was glaring to see how he'd fare with a full offseason to hone his craft.
Newton's once again flashed promise, but he's losing ground. The former Illinois standout is a potentially explosive pass-rusher, but he remains a lackluster presence against the run. Perhaps more concerning is the fact that his snap count has plummeted over the first four weeks of 2025.
After logging 51 percent of Washington's defensive snaps last season, Newton has accumulated just 32% this time around. Javon Kinlaw has surged into the starting spot vacated by Jonathan Allen. Eddie Goldman is being preferred by the coaching staff when rotations are needed on early downs. That's a damning indictment of how the second-year pro's talent, especially in the run game, is being perceived.
Fans were anticipating more from Newton this season. All hope is not lost just yet, but he's in danger of becoming a rotational 3-technique brought in for obvious pass-rushing situations rather than a legitimate three-down presence right now.