Commanders defensive starters
- Defensive Line: Dorance Armstrong Jr. (DE), Daron Payne (DT), Javon Kinlaw (DT), Deatrich Wise Jr. (DE), Johnny Newton (3-Tech)
- Linebackers: Bobby Wagner, Frankie Luvu, Jacob Martin (3rd down), Jordan Magee (4-3 formation)
- Cornerbacks: Marshon Lattimore, Trey Amos, Mike Sainristil (Nickel), Jonathan Jones
- Safeties: Quan Martin, Will Harris
If there was one potential problem that could hold the Washington Commanders back from a deep playoff run next season, it's their pass rush. Fans are convinced Joe Whitt Jr.'s unit doesn't have enough. Adam Peters holds a different opinion, and the general manager earned enough credit for the team's support to trust his judgment.
Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Deatrich Wise Jr. could be the defensive end tandem in Week 1. Both are solid if not spectacular, so it'll be interesting to see how the pair get on when competitive action commences.
The Commanders released Pro Bowl defensive tackle Jonathan Allen this offseason. They felt the financial commitment no longer matched the production, which could also apply to Daron Payne next spring if he doesn't improve as the team's No. 1 interior option in the trenches.
There's pressure on free-agent signing Javon Kinlaw to meet his lofty price tag, which most perceive as a massive overpay. Johnny Newton will also form a considerable part of the rotation, perhaps in a more typical 3-technique role in pass-rushing situations.
Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu are the beating heart of Washington's defense at the second level. Both were an absolute revelation during their first seasons with the Commanders. Everyone is expecting the same again, although hopes are growing that Jordan Magee can also become more influential when Whitt adopts a more traditional 4-3 base scheme. Jacob Martin is the versatile pass-rusher tasked with replacing Dante Fowler Jr.
The cornerback unit looks like an area of real strength if everything goes according to the script. Marshon Lattimore is projected to bounce back with a full offseason to get healthy and become more familiar with the schematic concepts. The Commanders believe they have a steal in Trey Amos. Those in power could start the No. 61 overall pick on the opposite boundary, leaving potential superstar Mike Sainristil free to occupy more responsibilities in the nickel.
If the Commanders go with a dime defense at any stage, preference would be for two-time Super Bowl winner Jonathan Jones over Noah Igbinoghene, although both should play an important part.
Letting Jeremy Chinn walk in free agency was a calculated risk by the Commanders. Free-agent signing Will Harris must hit the ground running to fill the void left by the Southern Illinois product. Quan Martin is the top dog and should excel further after an extremely promising campaign last time around.
There are grave concerns surrounding the ability to generate pressure consistently. But aside from that, the Commanders' defense could improve enough to make things more balanced throughout the 2025 season.