Washington Commanders 53-man roster prediction: Defense
Commanders DL (6)
- Daron Payne, Javon Kinlaw, Tim Settle Jr., Johnny Newton, Deatrich Wise Jr., Shy Tuttle
Big changes are coming to the Washington Commanders' defense under new coordinator Daronte Jones. But for these ambitious plans to work, it all starts on the front.
The Commanders are switching to a 3-4 base under Jones. Daron Payne, Javon Kinlaw, and free-agent signing Tim Settle Jr. could be a highly productive starting trio, and a breakout is also expected from Johnny Newton in Year 3 of his professional career.
Deatrich Wise Jr. has the size and run-stopping ability to be a viable 3-4 defensive end backup piece. Considering that this scheme is predicated on space-eaters clogging space with their size in the trenches, Shy Tuttle could get the nod over others.
Commanders edge rushers (5)
- Odafe Oweh, K'Lavon Chaisson, Dorance Armstrong Jr., Charles Omenihu, Joshua Josephs
Generating pressure consistently was in short supply for the Commanders last season. After some major offseason investments by Adam Peters, that is expected to change.
Odafe Oweh was the big-money signing who could completely transform Washington's fortunes. K'Lavon Chaisson wants to build on his 2025 breakout for a loftier payday this time next year. Charles Omenihu brings positive depth, and fifth-round rookie Joshua Josephs' explosiveness could be an asset in obvious pass-rushing situations.
There is also the pending return of Doorance Armstrong Jr., who was in the middle of a breakout season before tearing his ACL. If he can get back to this form, Washington's edge-rushing unit will be a strength.
Commanders LBs (5)
- Frankie Luvu, Leo Chenal, Sonny Styles, Jordan Magee, Kain Medrano
The Commanders wanted to get faster at linebacker this offseason. Bobby Wagner wasn't brought back, but it's a small price to pay for progress.
Frankie Luvu is moving back to his off-ball role. The Commanders signed Leo Chenal in free agency, who's dynamic and physical in equal measure. Adam Peters also used the No. 7 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to select Sonny Styles, who has all the traits of a franchise cornerstone to build around for the next decade.
Jordan Magee will be a core part of the rotation and a major asset on special teams. With veteran Nick Bellore deciding to retire, it provides an opening for Kain Medrano to secure his place on the roster.
Commanders CBs (5)
- Trey Amos, Mike Sainristil, Amik Robertson, Rasul Douglas, Quan Martin
The Commanders' cornerback unit is perceived by some to be a potential weak link heading into the campaign. But the scheme being installed by Daronte Jones, along with the enhancements to Washington's defensive front seven, should help minimize complications.
Trey Amos won't be available for the start of camp, but Adam Peters didn't seem concerned about his outlook for Week 1. Mike Sainristil and free-agent signing Amik Robertson will play their roles, and Washington bolstered depth with the recent acquisition of Rasul Douglas.
I've also placed Quan Martin with the cornerbacks. He spent a lot of time in the nickel over early workouts, which might be where he is best suited with a strong summer.
Commanders safeties (4)
- Nick Cross, Will Harris, Jeremy Reaves, Tyler Owens
Taking through only four safeties might not be the plan, but with Quan Martin having the versatility to play in the slot or on the back end, it's something to consider.
Nick Cross will lead the charge after joining the Commanders in free agency. He's a tone-setting presence against the run, though some coverage inconsistencies must be rectified. Will Harris didn't have much luck last season, but the coaching staff is bullish about his chances of bouncing back in Daronte Jones' system.
Jeremy Reaves is a roster lock thanks to his energy, leadership, and special-teams production. The Commanders could go with Percy Butler, but taking a chance on Tyler Owens finally fulfilling his promise under Jones' guidance couldn't be dismissed either.
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