Head coach Dan Quinn picked out Johnny Newton as the player he expects to take off in 2026. Based on the interior defensive lineman's efforts over the Washington Commanders' offseason program, it's not hard to see why.
Newton has flashed promise over his first two seasons. He hasn't met the expectations associated with a high Day 2 pick, but injuries have been a troubling stumbling block in the pursuit of generating the required momentum.
That's all changed this offseason.
Johnny Newton is ready to show the Commanders who he really is
The former Illinois standout revealed that he's spent considerable time working on his conditioning away from the team. Newton's finally healthy, and he's looking to make the most of it. The early payoff is promising, and he's ready to showcase his qualities when the real action arrives.
"I got my body right. I've been training all offseason back in Florida ... I'm just ready to put it all on display."
This is immensely positive. Newton had foot surgery, which impacted his explosiveness in Year 1. He didn't get a full offseason last time around either. Consistency just wasn't where it needed to be early on, but he was among the biggest positives down the stretch. These included a three-sack game against the Dallas Cowboys when Washington's race was run.
It's a solid platform from which to build, but the pressure is on to produce.
Newton needs to show what he's really capable next season. His flashes as a pass-rusher are encouraging, but until the No. 38 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft improves his core strength against the run, that's all he will be.
Working within Daronte Jones' schematic concepts should help. The 3-4 front will have big bodies capable of eating space for others to do damage. It'll be interesting to see where Newton fits into the equation, but he should play an important role.
The Commanders believed in Newton before the draft. It's not been easy so far, but the tide may be turning. He's never lost faith in his abilities, and maximizing his offseason will only serve him well. And if he can become a genuine three-down force under Jones' guidance, that has the scope to completely change the dynamic.
Washington also has Daron Payne, Javon Kinlaw, and free-agent signing Tim Settle Jr. on the defensive front. They are established veterans who've been around the league for a long time. Newton is the wild card, but the newfound urgency attached to the upcoming campaign might be enough to propel the player to new heights.
Newton has momentum. He's healthy, in shape, and ready to silence his doubters. He's made a believer out of Quinn. And if the head coach's projection is accurate, a legitimate breakout may be in his future.
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