The Washington Commanders had high hopes of bouncing back this season. Things have not gone according to plan, and with a daunting Monday Night Football clash against the San Francisco 49ers before the bye, head coach Dan Quinn is staring down the prospect of being 1-4-1 during their extended rest.
This is unacceptable, and Quinn knows it.
Pressure has built after an inexplicable end to their tie with the New York Giants, prompting immediate calls for change. The Commanders won't pull the plug on Quinn yet, but that could happen after the season unless results improve.
It's a tense time. The Commanders' fortunes are teetering, and it'll take a massive effort to turn things around. At the same time, a few shining lights amid the doom and gloom offer encouragement to Washington's frustrated fan base.
With that in mind, here are six Commanders players whose standout efforts so far in 2026 are getting lost amid their ugly start.
Washington Commanders players whose standout efforts are getting lost in the mess
Rasul Douglas - Commanders CB
When the Commanders signed Rasul Douglas this offseason, fans approached the move with cautious optimism. He was experienced and physical enough to perform well in Daronte Jones' scheme, but there's no telling when age will catch up to veteran cornerbacks.
Thankfully, Douglas has taken on the challenge superbly. He's now starting opposite Amik Robertson, and he is making a considerable impression. His last two games have been particularly notable, which will only serve him well in pursuit of another deal beyond 2026.
Even with the return of 2025 second-round pick Trey Amos, Douglas still has a role to play. Jones' defense starts games well but drops off significantly in the second half. That's a problem, but the Virginia Tech product has quickly emerged as a real positive through the opening five games.
Antonio Williams - Commanders WR
The Commanders believed they got a steal when wide receiver Antonio Williams slipped through the cracks and into their laps at No. 71 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. While his numbers haven't been jaw-dropping, the flashes he's shown over his first five contests represent a solid platform to build on.
Williams is as advertised. He is a slick route runner who knows how to create separation. The former Clemson standout is adept at manipulating his routes and quickly gaining leverage. There have been a couple of lapses in concentration, but that's to be expected of a first-year player still adjusting to the pros.
He's bringing in 68.6 percent of his targets. Williams hasn't been credited with a drop yet, according to Pro Football Reference, but his next challenge is being stronger in contested catch situations.
If he can do this in the coming weeks and months, the Commanders have a long-term contributor.
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