Some reporters wondered whether the numbers game at linebacker would deny Jordan Magee a chance to become more impactful in Year 3 with the Washington Commanders. Now, a surprising development gives him an opening to carve out his own niche.
The Commanders confirmed that veteran Nick Bellore opted to retire rather than endure another grueling training camp and regular season. That was somewhat surprising, and a blow to the special-teams unit, but Washington is well-stocked with younger players looking for their shot.
Magee is among them. The third-year pro has flashed on the defensive rotation over the last two years. But with Frankie Luvu moving back to his off-ball role, signing Leo Chenal in free agency, and spending the No. 7 overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft on Sonny Styles, the Temple product is now firmly down the pecking order.
Jordan Magee is a prime candidate to become the Commanders' special-teams alpha
All hope for defensive involvement is not lost with Magee. But if all else fails, he can be a tailor-made replacement for Bellore on special teams.
One thing that attracted the Commanders to Magee was his athletic physical attributes. His 83 overall athleticism score at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine ranked third among all linebackers in Indianapolis. These traits have been evident in the pros, but to take the next step, he needs to improve his discipline and tackling technique.
It's a work in progress, but Magee has emerged as a useful special teamer over the last two years. And with Bellore no longer around, the Commanders need someone else to step up.
The Commanders have undergone a youth movement this offseason. The 37-year-old Bellore brings the average age down again, but there is more dynamism and energy across the roster now. Magee will harbor bigger ambitions than just special teams, but it's not a bad fallback option for sticking around.
Others will also fancy their chances. Kain Medrano and Ale Kaho immediately come to mind. They haven't been given many defensive reps so far, but they have athleticism, and they are instinctive.
Bellore's leadership will be missed perhaps more than his on-field production. At the same time, this is the circle of life in the NFL.
Players get old. Players move on. Players retire. And there is always the next batch of young hopefuls looking to follow in their footsteps.
In the Commanders' case, that is a good thing for the future. But when it's all said and done, don't be surprised if Magee is trusted more than anyone else on special teams.
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