There are high stakes attached to the Washington Commanders in 2026. The team is desperate to bounce back after a poor campaign, and similar failures this time around could prompt significant changes by Josh Harris' ownership group when the season concludes.
They may be from top to bottom. Head coach Dan Quinn must ease the pressure on himself. The aggressive moves made by general manager Adam Peters this offseason suggest urgency is high. Some players will also pay the price for any underperformance, which simply cannot happen.
Fortunately, the response to Washington's early offseason program was positive. The tempo was high, and everyone bought in immediately. It'll take much more to thrive in the regular season pressure cooker, but the foundations have been laid for a successful season if the Commanders manage to keep some of their top stars off the injury report.
It's a constant evaluation, and several enter the year with long-term futures in doubt. With this in mind, here are eight Commanders players who could be embarking on their last dance in Washington.
Washington Commanders players who could be entering their last dance with the team
Dorance Armstrong Jr. - Commanders DE/OLB
The Commanders worked hard to fortify their edge rushing options this offseason. This previously moribund unit now has a nice blend of youth and experience, together with much more athleticism and explosiveness. With Daronte Jones installing a scheme predicated on versatility, aggressiveness, and dynamism, the personnel is now in place.
In addition to the new arrivals, the Commanders should also have Dorance Armstrong Jr. back in time for Week 1 against the Philadelphia Eagles. His breakout campaign was cruelly cut short by a serious knee injury, but he's hitting all the right markers in his recovery.
Returning to full health is the first objective. After that, it's about doing enough to retain his starting role opposite Odafe Oweh. Others will also fancy their chances, and with Armstrong heading into a contract year, the motivation is clear.
Tress Way - Commanders P
Tress Way is the Commanders' longest-serving player. The three-time Pro Bowl punter was still performing at a high level last season, and he deservedly received another one-year commitment from the franchise.
But his status in Washington is year-to-year at this stage of his career.
Way could go on for a few more years yet. This will be based on his performance and whether he wants to prolong his NFL journey. He's been the model of consistency for over a decade. He is also a respected locker-room leader, further raising his influence.
If Way is still playing well and wants to continue, the Commanders will keep giving him one-year deals. But at 36, he is much closer to the end than the beginning.
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