Frankie Luvu - Commanders LB
The Washington Commanders needed younger, explosive players to ensure their defensive gamble on coordinator Daronte Jones goes smoothly. Adam Peters recognized this fact, making substantial changes to the personnel to give everything a more vibrant feel.
This was no more evident than at linebacker. Leo Chenal was signed in free agency, and the Commanders also spent the No. 7 overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft on Sonny Styles. It's got the potential to be a real strength if everyone stays healthy, especially if Frankie Luvu returns to his 2024 form.
And if the Washington State product wants another deal from the franchise, he'll need to.
Luvu was tasked with more edge responsibilities last season amid Washington's injury crisis. He did it for the team, but his production took a significant step back. Jones is now moving him back to his preferred off-ball role, but the Commanders have enough options to move on from him next year if his performance continues to slide.
Luke McCaffrey - Commanders WR
The time is now for Luke McCaffrey. He's not a fledgling hopeful making his way in the NFL anymore. This is Year 3 for the wide receiver, so massive improvements to raise his influence cannot be overstated.
McCaffrey's work as a kick returner drew praise last season before a broken collarbone dented his momentum. He's now healthy and reportedly looking sharp during early offseason workouts. Considering the questions around everyone behind Terry McLaurin in the wideout room, he may have a shot at more involvement with a strong summer.
The former Rice standout can create separation. McCaffrey is elusive with the football in his hands, but something was preventing the previous play-caller, Kliff Kingsbury, from giving him targets. That could all change under David Blough, but there is just no telling for sure right now.
If McCaffrey continues to be on the fringes, a precarious future could await when the 2027 offseason rolls around.
Javon Kinlaw - Commanders DL
The Commanders' defense is projected to move into a 3-4 base front under Daronte Jones. For this system switch to bear fruit, the trenches must set the tone.
Adam Peters kept faith with the prominent figures from last season, while also adding Tom Settle Jr. in free agency. It's a calculated risk, but there is confidence in the building that the underachieving unit can thrive much more effectively within concepts that suit their physical attributes.
Javon Kinlaw is under a bigger microscope than most. The Commanders gave him a strong vote of confidence last year with a three-year, $45 million contract, $30 million of which was guaranteed. It was immediately classed as a massive overpay, and that looks accurate after his disappointing first campaign in Washington.
Kinlaw got the benefit of the doubt, given it made no financial sense to cut him loose after just one season. That won't be the case next year if the trajectory doesn't start pointing up.
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