Investigations into the Washington Commanders' failure this season have already begun. Everyone — from experts to fans and everything in between — has a theory. But the only opinions that matter come from those in the building.
And one respected team insider laid out the blunt truth about what those in power need to prioritize this offseason.
Massive changes are coming to the playing personnel. The Commanders went all-in on building on their NFC Championship game appearance, and it didn't pay off. Injuries completely decimated their hopes, but it's also clear that this squad wasn't as far along as most thought.
Commanders must give their defense the offseason attention it deserves
There is a significant amount of hard work ahead. John Keim of ESPN believes this should all start with a defensive overhaul. And after watching this unit completely capitulate once again in 2025, anything less is organizational malpractice.
"In training camp, Washington's defense often outplayed an offense without wide receiver Terry McLaurin, among other players. The defense appeared to be sound. Turns out, that was a mirage. The Commanders' D enters the season finale ranked 31st in takeaways, 27th in points allowed, 29th in the red zone, 30th versus the run and 30th in yards allowed per play. Coach Dan Quinn took over playcalling duties from coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. in Week 11. The Commanders will need to settle the coordinator duties while seeking upgrades to every level of their defense. "John Keim
Keim isn't alone. Fans are clamoring for the Commanders to get younger and more explosive on defense. There are too many aging veterans past their prime, and there are too many young breakout hopefuls who just haven't come close to meeting expectations. Nothing but a complete revamp will do. And make no mistake; this should be the most pressing priority above all else.
It doesn't just mean the players, either. Head coach Dan Quinn will likely fire defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. after the campaign concludes. Several other assistants could follow him out the door once a new hire is confirmed, so Washington's defense is going to look entirely different once preparations for the 2026 campaign begin.
If that means letting some fan favorites leave or upsetting some who were tabbed as franchise cornerstones previously, so be it. The time for anything less than drastic action is gone. Otherwise, it won't be just Whitt who is forced to carry the can.
A fascinating and immensely important few months await. And fans will be watching things unfold extremely closely as Washington looks to right a grave wrong.