The Washington Commanders were still striving to end their season with a win, despite a large portion of the fan base being more focused on securing a high-end draft selection. That's not in head coach Dan Quinn's mindset, and there was still a chance to gain some divisional pride before attention turned to the offseason.
Getting one over on the Philadelphia Eagles is always satisfying. Nick Sirianni rested the majority of his starting options in readiness for next weekend's playoff clash, but the Commanders were not going to roll over and do the same. Quinn felt he owed it to the players who've given their all this season to go for victory, even if it meant they would be picking a little lower down the 2026 draft pecking order.
Nothing much has gone right for the Commanders this season. It's been a hard fall back down to earth after their miracle run to the NFC Championship game last time out. Massive changes are coming in the offseason. But for one last time, this roster, as currently constructed, had the chance to fight for each other against a bitter division rival.
The Commanders dug deep for a morale-boosting triumph against all odds. On this topic, here are four winners and three losers from Washington's regular-season finale at Lincoln Financial Field.
Winners and losers from Commanders' regular-season finale against the Eagles
Winner No. 1
Daron Payne - Commanders DL
There is enormous uncertainty around defensive lineman Daron Payne's future heading into the offseason. The Pro Bowler has one more year remaining on his deal and is the Washington Commanders' largest salary-cap hit once again in 2026. Most believe he'll want an extension in advance, which could be a problem.
It was clear from early on that Payne was eager to make one final splash before attention turned to what comes next. The interior force was relentless from start to finish, causing havoc along the line of scrimmage and constantly getting Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Tanner McKee off his spot. There was aggression, physicality, and explosiveness in almost everything he did, and his contribution played a huge role in Washington's final-day triumph.
Whether this changes how general manager Adam Peters handles his situation with Payne in the coming weeks is debatable. Extending him ahead of time won't be cheap, and the Commanders have a plethora of needs elsewhere. Washington is in a period of transition, so the front-office leader could decide to gauge the trade market for the former Alabama standout instead.
Everything is out of Payne's hands now. But he's at least put out a more dominant film for other teams to examine if the Commanders make him surplus to requirements.