Winner No. 5
Daronte Jones - Commanders DC
Amid all the Washington Commanders' problems this season, their defense has been a growing bright spot in the doom and gloom. And aggressive coordinator Daronte Jones' relentless mindset is a big reason why.
Jones comes from the Brian Flores coaching tree. He spent three years with the Minnesota Vikings as his right-hand man, and it shows. And the first-time NFL play-caller didn't back down an inch against the New York Giants on Thursday Night Football.
The Commanders made their intentions clear from early on. Jones' creative pressure packages caused endless problems throughout. They had some slight deficiencies against the run, and Giants quarterback J.J. McCarthy made a couple of nice plays when the blitzes didn't arrive in time.
But with everything on the line late, Jones never wavered.
He kept bringing the heat. He threw everything at McCarthy, and Jones eventually got his reward. Whether head coach Dan Quinn sticks around beyond 2026 hasn't been decided yet, but either way, the Commanders must hold onto their defensive coordinator at all costs.
Loser No. 2
Commanders rushing attack
The Commanders need more from their running game. They are missing Jacory Croskey-Merritt, who is eligible to return from injured reserve next week, but big changes could be looming in this area of the field when the 2027 offseason arrives.
Rachaad White has some nice moments, but his hesitancy to cut upfield quickly is problematic. Austin Ekeler is solid enough, but he wouldn't be classed as a needle-mover at this stage of his career. Robert Henry Jr. has promise, but he's an undrafted rookie trying to find his feet.
Croskey-Merritt wasn't playing all that well before he got hurt, so what the Commanders can expect from him upon his return remains to be seen. But gaining 3.2 yards per carry against the Giants only raised the possibility of a big splash when the campaign concludes.
If the Commanders can find a legitimate stud to pair with Jayden Daniels, it could take this offense to new heights.
Winner No. 6
Stefon Diggs - Commanders WR
Big games demand big performances from big players. And with second-team All-Pro wide receiver Terry McLaurin out for the season with a torn patellar tendon, Stefon Diggs took it upon himself to come through for his team with the NFL's undivided attention.
Diggs looked frustrated last weekend against the Los Angeles Rams. The wideout felt he should have been targeted more, and he was right. Fortunately, that changed in this one, and when Jayden Daniels needed clutch plays down the stretch, the Maryland product was his first read.
Diggs has always been a top-level performer throughout his career. The brighter the spotlight, the better he performs. And when he gets momentum, he remains a significant obstacle to overcome.
His exceptional route on the game-winning touchdown catch typified what Diggs can do. The four-time Pro Bowler caught six receptions for 83 receiving yards and a score, with his leadership on the sidelines keeping everyone focused on finally coming through.
More of this, please.
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