4. Commanders signed Chig Okonkwo
With veteran tight end Zach Ertz's time with the Washington Commanders over, Adam Peters needed to find a suitable replacement. He chose Chig Okonkwo as the new primary pass-catcher in the room.
Okonkwo put up some decent numbers in a poor situation with the Tennessee Titans. The Commanders recognized his potential to thrive within David Blough's concepts, giving him a three-year, $27 million deal to bring him into the fold. And the imposing start made over the offseason can provide the springboard to a 2026 breakout if the same trend continues.
It's not bold to say Okonkwo could become Washington's No. 2 option in the passing game behind Terry McLaurin with a strong start.
3. Commanders hired Daronte Jones
Joe Whitt Jr. was a lame duck defensive coordinator from a long way out last season. Head coach Dan Quinn took over play-calling duties, which meant the writing was on the wall. Changes were coming, and they arrived swiftly.
Whitt was fired. After a lengthy search for his replacement, the Commanders honed in on Daronte Jones. To say this is an intriguing hire would be an understatement.
Jones has preached aggression, versatility, and creativity for his system. He might be a first-time NFL play-caller, but he's highly experienced, having worked under some top-level defensive minds throughout his career. The players have responded positively to his demands so far, and there is a growing sense this could be a shrewd appointment with improved options at all three levels.
2. Commanders drafted Sonny Styles
With only six picks at Washington's disposal, Adam Peters had to make his No. 7 overall selection count. As it turned out, the front-office leader got a gift from the football gods that he was wise not to waste.
The Commanders were extremely high on Sonny Styles, but they didn't hold out much hope he would still be around when they went on the clock. Fortune favored them, and this could be the franchise cornerstone on defense to build around for the next decade.
Styles has it all. His size and length make him a physical force. His athleticism is off the charts. He can rush the passer or thrive in coverage, and his high football IQ is matched by exceptional communication skills and emerging leadership.
Expectations are high for Styles. He's got the tools to meet them and then some.
1. Commanders extended Laremy Tunsil
The Commanders struggled to meet higher goals in 2025. However, their blockbuster trade to acquire Laremy Tunsil from the Houston Texans was a massive hit.
Tunsil was exceptional. He performed at an All-Pro level, displaying superb pass-blocking skills and becoming a crushing force against the run. The Ole Miss product took on a mentor role with rookie Josh Conerly Jr., which could be a bookend tackle tandem in the coming years.
Adam Peters handled Tunsil's financial situation perfectly. He didn't wait, giving him another large contract extension that reset the average annual salary market for left tackles. Looking at the way he dominated last season, the veteran is worth every cent.
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