With the introduction of new coordinator Daronte Jones, the Washington Commanders' defensive personnel is expected to undergo a significant overhaul this offseason. That won't make everyone who is currently under contract happy, but it's the only way to move forward.
Some difficult decisions are coming. Jones may want to see what he has before taking more drastic action during early preparations for the 2026 campaign. At the same time, the tape doesn't lie.
After some studying, coupled with the assessments of general manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn, the lay of the land should be pretty clear. And aside from a very select few, nobody should be considered safe.
NFL analyst believes Commanders could trade Quan Martin after woeful 2025
Jones ' specialty is defensive backs. He likes versatile players who can switch alignments depending on the situation. Quan Martin falls into that category, having spent time at safety and as a nickel cornerback throughout his career, but one NFL analyst believes he may be past the point of no return in Washington.
Bradley Locker from Pro Football Focus highlighted Martin as a potential trade candidate for the Commanders this offseason. The up-and-coming voice thought his severe regression last season and the promise of additional reinforcements capable of slotting into Jones' scheme more effectively could make him surplus to requirements, and it's hard to argue with the logic.
"The problems with Washington’s defense were especially pronounced in the secondary, where the Commanders ended the year 31st in PFF coverage grade. As general manager Adam Peters pursues upgrades, [Quan] Martin’s spot could be in jeopardy. The former second-round pick hasn’t played as anticipated in the pros, receiving a 57.8 overall grade with a 38.6 PFF coverage mark. This year, Martin yielded the highest passer rating when targeted (151.8) at the position while also surrendering the seventh-most yards (468). The 25-year-old may call another franchise home."Bradley Locker
Jones holds the key. His work developing defensive backs is renowned and respected in equal measure. If he believes that Martin is beyond salvaging, that should be enough for Peters to find a willing suitor.
Most fans and experts thought Martin was poised for a breakout campaign in 2025. The Commanders placed significant faith in his capabilities by allowing Jeremy Chinn to leave for the Las Vegas Raiders. It was a gamble that blew up spectacularly, and the fact that he was used sparingly down the stretch was an indictment of his poor performance.
Whether the Commanders would get any offer worth accepting for Martin is anyone's guess. His decline last season won't be looked upon favorably, but there might be a team out there willing to throw a late-round selection to see if his pre-draft promise can finally become something more.
Martin is cheap enough to stay with the Commanders on the final year of his rookie deal. But if more safeties are acquired, all bets are off.