Commanders defensive roster projection
Defensive Line (9): Javon Kinlaw, Daron Payne, Johnny Newton, Dorance Armstrong Jr., Deatrich Wise Jr., Von Miller, Jacob Martin, Sheldon Day, Eddie Goldman
Linebackers (5): Bobby Wagner, Frankie Luvu, Jordan Magee, Kain Medrano, Nick Bellore
Cornerbacks (6): Marshon Lattimore, Mike Sainristil, Trey Amos, Jonathan Jones, Noah Igbinoghene, Car'lin Vigers
Safeties (5): Quan Martin, Will Harris, Tyler Owens, Jeremy Reaves, Percy Butler
If the Washington Commanders want to go one better in 2025, their defense must raise its consistency. Nothing else will do, and it could legitimately go either way upon further examination of their options.
This all starts in the trenches. Jonathan Allen is gone, replaced by Javon Kinlaw. The free-agent signing got more money than most anticipated, but those in power are confident his unique blend of size, power, and athleticism can make a significant difference.
Daron Payne will lead the way, and he's reportedly thriving with more responsibilities on his shoulders. Bigger things are also expected of Johnny Newton, last year's second-round pick who flashed real promise as a rookie.
Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Deatrich Wise Jr. will likely start as the defensive end tandem. Recent signing Von Miller brings glittering credentials to the table, but the future Pro Football Hall of Famer will probably become a pass-rushing specialist at this late stage of his career.
Eddie Goldman and Sheldon Day could provide useful depth on the interior. The same goes for Jacob Martin on the edge, which leaves Clelin Ferrell on the outside looking in.
Washington's linebacking corps will once again be spearheaded by Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu, who both earned second-team All-Pro honors last season. Jordan Magee could be in line for more involvement after his rookie campaign was hindered by injury. Sixth-round selection Kain Medrano is rough around the edges, but his athleticism is absolutely off the charts. Veteran Nick Bellore should also go through as a special-teams force.
That leaves once-promising draft pick Dominique Hampton out of luck, although much will depend on what improvements the linebacker/safety hybrid has made this offseason.
Marshon Lattimore looks healthy and explosive after the cornerback finally got the required time to fully recover from a hamstring issue. Second-year standout Mike Sainristil is a superstar in waiting. Jonathan Jones brings experience and proven production. There's also hope that second-round pick Trey Amos can make an instant impact on the boundary.
Noah Igbinoghene should also make it after impressing last season. That probably leaves one cornerback spot for the rest, which might just be taken by undrafted free agent Car'lin Vigers if he catches the eye at camp and when preseason reps come his way.
The Commanders took a big risk at the safety spot by letting Jeremy Chinn walk for the Las Vegas Raiders. Will Harris was signed to replace him, but those lower down the depth chart can surge up into more prominent roles.
Tyler Owens, Jeremy Reaves, and Percy Butler have all drawn praise this offseason. But don't be surprised if Adam Peters adds another experienced presence into the mix if he isn't satisfied with how things are unfolding.