Washington Commanders fans were desperately craving someone to put together a legitimate breakout campaign this season. It's still early days, but an underrated defensive player looks like being the guy.
Much has been made about the Commanders' lack of legitimate pass-rushing threat. Adam Peters focused his significant investments on other areas of the field. That brought concern among the fan base, but those in positions of influence were confident in the options available.
With veteran Deatrich Wise Jr. out for the season due to a torn quad requiring surgery, the burden falls more on Dorance Armstrong Jr. He has earned the trust of Dan Quinn from their time together on the Dallas Cowboys. After a relatively mundane first season in Washington, he's starting to put everything together this time around.
Dorance Armstrong Jr. is emerging as Commanders' defensive line difference-maker
Armstrong is Washington's most productive edge threat by a considerable margin. He demonstrated pass-rushing capabilities, although he did not meet the required numbers in 2024. The former Kansas standout is starting to turn more of his opportunities into sacks, which always separates the good defensive ends from the great.
An early takedown of Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith in Week 3 was his third in consecutive games to begin the campaign. Armstrong was relentless versus a vulnerable offensive line, boasting quick-twitch explosiveness off the snap and outstanding speed in pursuit. That's a dangerous combination that is sure to benefit the Commanders greatly.
Keeping up these new high standards will be the next challenge for Armstrong. The Commanders are expecting him to evolve into a legitimate No. 1 option, and they need this scenario to come to fruition immediately. The 2018 fourth-round pick is answering the call so far, and there could be even more to come from the player with some early momentum firmly secured.
Considering the dire need for consistency on the defensive edge, Armstrong's early-season surge represents a refreshing change of pace. But make no mistake, what comes next is even more critical.