Washington Commanders defensive lineman Johnny Newton had the game of his life on Christmas Day against the Dallas Cowboys, registering three sacks in the Week 17 loss. Despite the result, he gave it his all.
In the process, Newton more than doubled his sack total all season long. He'd only recorded two takedowns in the Commanders' previous 15 games, and another two in 16 showings in 2024.
In total, Washington sacked Cowboys star quarterback Dak Prescott six times. It raises an intriguing question: Where has this been from Newton — and the entire Commanders' pass rush —this season?
Johnny Newton only showed up when nothing mattered anymore anyway
Newton's breakout game was what the Commanders have been begging for out of him for two years, ever since he was taken with the No. 36 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. This game was his first start of the season, and he made the most of his opportunity with both Daron Payne and Eddie Goldman out.
But was it a true statement of his arrival, or just a fluke? Rick "Doc" Walker from106.7 The Fan remains skeptical.
Whatever the reason for Johnny Newton's big game, @RickDocWalker wonders why that's the first time we've seen that fire? pic.twitter.com/iSZW4IMR3M
— 106.7 The Fan (@1067theFan) December 26, 2025
"Whatever it is, why is it the first time we've seen it?" the former Super Bowl-winning tight end asked, and he's not the only one unsold by this total outlier of a performance. Even on Thursday, despite the three sacks, his run-stopping was atrocious.
Walker's co-host Kevin Sheehan pointed out that many of the Commanders' sacks were "six-second sacks," which are more of a product of the quarterback holding the ball too long or defensive coverage taking away receivers. Washington's pass rush had all day to get to Prescott, and it would have been embarrassing if they didn't put up massive numbers.
Suffice to say, Newton still has plenty more to prove. A lot of that moving forward will depend on opportunity, and Walker makes a point of this as well. To paraphrase his comments, the Commanders need players who can continue to step up in a way that calls into question whether their struggles are on them or on how Dan Quinn and his staff are using them.
For Newton, his breakout effort against the Cowboys must end up being a turning point in his career. He needs to be on the field more often in passing situations. He also needs to prove he's more than a one-game wonder.
The bar has now been raised.