The Washington Commanders have made significant waves in improving their roster between last season's disappointing 5-12 record and the upcoming 2026 campaign. But not all position groups have left fans satisfied.
Washington's defensive backfield has taken a lot of heat, and perhaps deservedly so. Last year, the cornerbacks and safeties were a disaster, and this offseason they have only added strong safety Nick Cross and some depth at corner.
Still, the games are played on the field, not on paper. And there's reason to believe this group might not be quite as weak as feared.
Commanders' defensive backs could benefit from stronger pass rush, safety help
J.P. Finlay of NBC Sports and former Washington legend Brian Mitchell discussed the group on the BMitch and Finlay Show, both concurring that the Commanders' defensive backfield is poised to take a step forward in 2026.
With an improved pass rush and versatile players like Will Harris, the Commanders' secondary is poised to be even stronger this year. Rasul Douglas brings invaluable experience there, too, fitting in as either a top corner or a fifth defensive back, wherever needed. pic.twitter.com/EgBiUrGpKW
— 106.7 The Fan (@1067theFan) July 13, 2026
Mitchell brings up Will Harris, who is not a new face but played in only nine games during an injury-plagued 2025 season. In new coordinator Daronte Jones' scheme, his versatility could allow him to be used more effectively across multiple roles.
The addition of Rasul Douglas also gives Washington some options. The veteran journeyman might be the Commanders' best cornerback this season, or he might be a reserve who only steps in situationally. The experience of the West Virginia product should help the young unit tremendously.
Most importantly, the major upgrades in the Commanders' linebacker group should make everyone around them better.
With Odafe Oweh and K'Lavon Chaisson in town for pass-rush help and No. 7 overall pick Sonny Styles and Leo Chenal bringing unique skillsets on the interior, opposing offenses won't have the leverage to dink-and-dunk the ball at will.
The speed and lateral movement of Washington's front seven should give quarterbacks trouble in the pocket, forcing them to test the secondary in more desperate situations. As long as the Commanders can limit giving up home-run balls, life should be much easier on their defensive backfield.
All of this doesn't even account for Trey Amos returning to full health as he enters Year 2, and for a full season of Mike Sainristil as a boundary corner, a role in which he has been much more productive in the NFL than in the slot. Amik Robertson and Ahkello Witherspoon should also provide quality depth.
Until the results on the field have shown, no one will know for sure what the Commanders have in store for 2026. But the hand-wringing over their defensive back corps might be a little bit exaggerated.
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