Daron Payne - Commanders DL
The Washington Commanders opted to hold firm with Daron Payne. Speculation was rampant that the defensive lineman would be traded or released. General manager Adam Peters kept faith, but there will be no new deal before it's due.
Payne earned Pro Bowl honors after gaining 11.5 sacks the last time he was in a contract year. Expecting the same is unrealistic, but he should be highly motivated to raise his contribution within Daronte Jones' innovative scheme.
Jones is projected to run a 3-4 base alignment. Payne will likely operate as a 3-4 defensive end, and he's got the physical tools needed to become a real force. With the improved options at his disposal, hopes are high that he can do the same again.
The Alabama product has the physical tools and the talent. Becoming more consistent is key. But if he can, then another large financial outlay might not be too far behind.
Rachaad White - Commanders RB
The Commanders believe they may have hit the jackpot with running back Rachaad White. He turned down offers from elsewhere to reunite with quarterback Jayden Daniels in Washington, and though it's still early days, it already looks like it could be a masterstroke.
White certainly looked the part over Washington's offseason program. The sharpness, explosiveness, and ability as a pass-catcher out of the backfield came to the fore quickly. His previous chemistry with Daniels enabled a smooth transition to a different environment. It's a solid opening, but the Commanders are still likely to move forward with a committee backfield approach.
Jacory Croskey-Merritt and sixth-round rookie Kaytron Allen could also make their presence felt. If they all meet expectations, this will be a productive trio. But don't be surprised if White does enough to become the top option sooner rather than later.
If White achieves this objective and puts up the required numbers, the dual-threat will be in a strong position when it's time to negotiate another contract next year.
Frankie Luvu - Commanders LB
There have been massive changes to the Commanders' linebacker room this offseason. Daronte Jones' defensive system will rely on explosiveness, violence, aggression, and speed. Signing Leo Chenal in free agency and spending the No. 7 overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft on Sonny Styles ticks those boxes in no uncertain terms.
This could be an area of strength. Chenal and Styles will play their part, but the presence of inspirational leader Frankie Luvu back at the second level will also greatly assist.
Luvu was a second-team All-Pro during his first season in Washington. He was asked to spend more time on the edge last season, and his influence waned. Now, Jones is switching him back, which will play to his strengths and then some in a contract year.
The former Washington State star is still young enough to get another decent, multi-year contract. That might not be from the Commanders, but the queue of suitors will be long with another dominant campaign.
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