Daron Payne - Commanders DL
Contract year Daron Payne is on deck for the second time in his NFL career. And if it goes as well as the last one, the Washington Commanders are going to benefit greatly.
Payne's future was in doubt entering the offseason. Analysts and fans thought he could be traded or released, but general manager Adam Peters chose to stand by the player. There will be no new deal beforehand, which underscores the urgency of making the improvements required for another long-term commitment.
This is similar to 2022, when Payne recorded 11.5 sacks and made the Pro Bowl. The Commanders gave him a massive contract after that, and even though the production had not matched the paycheck since, there remains optimism with an improved supporting cast around him on the defensive front.
It remains a precarious situation for Payne; there is no getting away from that. But don't be shocked if the Alabama product puts together a doubt-silencing campaign in 2026.
Terry McLaurin - Commanders WR
It was a frustrating 2025 for Terry McLaurin. The wide receiver almost missed the entire offseason program during a tense contract standoff with the Commanders. He eventually got paid, but only when the deal suited Adam Peters. And this was followed by an injury-plagued campaign for the first time in his career.
McLaurin suffered a quad/hip flexor complication early in the season that took a long time to shake off. By the time he felt healthy enough to participate, the Commanders were already out of the running. It was deeply frustrating for everyone involved, and the wideout is looking to right this wrong when the 2026 campaign commences.
The Ohio State product has been putting in the hard work behind the scenes. McLaurin will be an integral part of David Blough's offensive scheme. Staying healthy is crucial, especially given the rumors that this could be his last season in Washington.
Time will tell on that, but McLaurin has a big point to prove.
Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB
The rookie season put together by quarterback Jayden Daniels was nothing short of phenomenal. He dragged the Commanders from also-rans all the way into the NFC Championship game, with his poise under pressure and natural swagger providing an injection of energy this franchise desperately needed.
Daniels' second campaign was not as profitable. The former LSU phenom featured in just seven games due to hamstring, knee, and elbow injuries. He completed only four contests, and it was no surprise to see the Commanders completely capitulate without him.
This stung Daniels more than anyone. He's now healthy and looking to silence some doubters who are growing in number. He's also been putting in the hard work over the offseason, leading from the front with determination and purpose that everyone willingly follows.
Daniels moves in silence, but he's heard the criticism. That should be all the motivation needed to bounce back next season.
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