Commanders DL (5)
- Daron Payne, Javon Kinlaw, Tim Settle Jr., D.J. Davidson, Jeffrey M'Ba.
The Washington Commanders are projected to switch to a 3-4 base defensive front under new coordinator Daronte Jones. That changes the dynamic considerably, but this scheme's success will be predicated on the trenches.
Daron Payne, Javon Kinlaw, and free-agent signing Tim Settle Jr. will probably start. D.J. Davidson's arrival brings some intrigue, and a chance could potentially be taken on undrafted rookie Jeffrey M'Ba if he performs well over the summer.
Commanders EDGEs (6)
- Odafe Oweh, Dorance Armstrong Jr., K'Lavon Chaisson, Charles Omenihu, Joshua Josephs, Deatrich Wise Jr.
The edge-rushing room got the attention it deserved this offseason. Odafe Oweh is the big money signing. K'Lavon Chaisson and Charles Omenihu both secured one-year deals. Dorance Armstrong Jr. is also making good progress from a serious knee injury, which gives the Commanders a productive quartet to depend upon.
Washington also re-signed Deatrich Wise Jr., a solid veteran with run-stopping prowess who could also line up on the front. And in rookie Joshua Josephs, the Commanders have another promising pass-rusher on the rotation.
Commanders LBs (5)
- Sonny Styles, Frankie Luvu, Leo Chenal, Jordan Magee, Nick Bellore.
The Commanders' linebacking corps looks more vibrant and energetic after an eventful offseason. Sonny Styles will lead the charge, and Washington is immensely bullish about what the No. 7 pick could bring to the table.
Frankie Luvu is moving to an off-ball role, where he is undoubtedly best suited. Free-agent signing Leo Chenal should be impactful, and the Commanders remain high on Jordan Magee entering a crucial Year 3 of his professional career.
While it's no guarantee, Nick Bellore's exceptional special-teams contribution could also secure his spot on the roster.
Commanders CBs (4)
- Trey Amos, Mike Sainristil, Amik Robertson, Ahkello Witherspoon.
The Commanders didn't draft a cornerback, which was surprising. This is arguably the unit with the most unknowns, and another option should be acquired at some stage before Week 1 rolls around.
Trey Amos and Mike Sainristil are second-round picks with promise. Amik Robertson and Ahkello Witherspoon were acquired in free agency, but they both have concerns. Aside from that, the cupboard is relatively bare, so acquiring another proven performer will only help Washington's chances.
Commanders safeties (5)
- Nick Cross, Quan Martin, Will Harris, Jeremy Reaves, Tyler Owens.
The Commanders may be light on cornerback options, but there will be a lot of interchangeable pieces. Versatility is key in Jones' scheme, with the likes of Quan Martin and Tyler Owens capable of playing as a big nickel, depending on the situation.
Free-agent signing Nick Cross is the tone-setting force desperately needed. Jerremy Reaves has the energy, and Will Harris is looking to finally put together a good campaign. Percy Butler's special-teams contribution may not be enough to get a reprieve this time around.
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