There is a significant amount at stake for the Washington Commanders in 2026. Head coach Dan Quinn comes into the campaign with pressure on his shoulders. With the vast improvements made to the roster by general manager Adam Peters this offseason, he must deliver.
Most are expecting improvements from the Commanders, but projections are sketchy. Some analysts have them tabbed as a potential playoff challenger if quarterback Jayden Daniels stays healthy. Others believe there is not enough firepower. And with the NFC East's increased competitiveness, it's even more difficult.
Quinn knows what will happen if he cannot get this ambitious project back on track. Now that the schedule is officially confirmed, he'll also know the structure of these challenges, and it looks pretty daunting in the grand scheme of things.
With this in mind, we took an early look at how the Commanders might fare in our first game-by-game predictions for 2026.
Washington Commanders game-by-game predictions for the 2026 season
Commanders at Eagles - Week 1
If the Commanders were looking for an easy introduction into such a pivotal campaign, they're out of luck. It's a brutal stretch over the first six weeks before their Week 7 bye. And they begin with a crunch divisional battle on the road.
The Philadelphia Eagles should be highly competitive once again. They might also be more vulnerable than ever, having lost some key personnel this offseason, and wide receiver A.J. Brown is set to be traded after June 1.
- Prediction: Loss (0-1)
There are many unknowns here. Both clubs have rookie offensive play-callers. Both are looking to silence some doubters who are growing in number. But Lincoln Financial Field is intimidating, and the Eagles have more continuity right now. That gives them the edge.
Commanders at Cowboys - Week 2
Another road game for the Commanders against a bitter NFC East foe. This time, Dan Quinn takes his squad to familiar surroundings, and the Dallas Cowboys are once again being hyped up as a possible playoff hopeful.
That is the case almost every year, but they rarely deliver. The Cowboys have had less drama around them this offseason, aside from the brewing contract standoff with wide receiver George Pickens. They also believe some notable defensive enhancements throughout the recruitment period can help them become more balanced en route to better fortunes.
- Prediction: Win (1-1)
This will be the perfect chance for Washington to make an early statement. If the Commanders' defensive improvements can hold firm, they have a real shot against their most hated adversary.
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