Analyst makes bold claim over Commanders' chances in 2024

The Washington Commanders look unrecognizable from the subpar operation that ended the 2023 campaign with eight straight defeats. Josh Harris' ownership group's lofty plans to get this franchise up to NFL standards saw a plethora of changes across the board. Everything from the front office to the playing staff received a significant makeover. Things look far more encouraging as a result.

This is just the start.

Harris and his wealthy benefactors are looking for a new stadium site. They are making substantial improvements to Commanders Field before that. The team's practice facility also looks great following investment, which is a far cry from how things deteriorated under Dan Snyder's torrid two-decade reign as owner.

Of course, putting out a better football product and improving results is an integral part of the process. People around the league are starting to look at the Commanders differently. If they pick up a few extra wins and become more competitive under new head coach Dan Quinn, they'll increase their chances of being an attractive destination once again.

Commanders tipped to exceed expectations under Dan Quinn in 2024

Fans are moving forward with cautious optimism, and rightfully so. Bryan DeArdo from CBS Sports holds a different opinion. The analyst believes that the Commanders can exceed expectations during their first season with Quinn at the helm. This is thanks in no small part to some outstanding additions throughout one of the most dramatic offseasons in franchise history.

"I personally love just about everything the [Washington] Commanders did this offseason, especially the hiring of Dan Quinn as head coach, Kliff Kingsbury as offensive coordinator, the free agent signings of Austin Ekeler, Tyler Biadasz and Bobby Wagner (among others) and the selection of rookie QB Jayden Daniels with the No. 2 overall pick. Don't sleep on D.C. in 2024."

- Bryan DeArdo, CBS Sports

The Commanders will improve, that's almost a given. There's no telling how much things can progress looking at how competitive things are in the NFC East and the questions surrounding certain position groups. Time will tell on that front.

Adam Peters was quick to stress this will be a long-term project. Going from worst to first is not uncommon around the league. That'll be a tough challenge, but something everyone should be aspiring for given the newfound belief and purpose within the building.

Most over/under win totals have the Commanders at 6.5 next season. Considering they gained four victories last time around when motivation was at an all-time low, it's an attainable target. Displaying some pride and being fundamentally sound in all phases will go a long way to achieving this objective.

Even if the Commanders don't make the postseason or even attain a winning record, it's not the end of the world. Fans can relax safe in the knowledge there is a plan for sustained growth. They have qualified individuals capable of getting this organization back to prominence. It might take time, but Rome wasn't built in a day.

It'll be fascinating to see things unfold with so many encouraging signs where once there was nothing but misery. Getting off to a positive start is crucial. If Quinn and his players can accomplish this, it's all systems go.