The Washington Commanders might have made their way to the NFC Championship game in 2024, but one team was always a step ahead. They just so happen to reside within their division and are the defending Super Bowl champions entering the new campaign.
For all the positivity and genuine hope surrounding the Commanders, the Philadelphia Eagles remain the benchmark. The gap might be closer after an ultra-aggressive offseason from general manager Adam Peters, but the fact remains until further notice.
Washington split the NFC East series with the Eagles. They lost the big one when it mattered most, coughing up 55 points in the conference championship at Lincoln Financial Field to fall at the final hurdle.
Commanders' defensive front could see them fall short of Eagles once again
Sayre Bedinger from NFL Spin Zone ranked the Commanders at No. 1 among teams that finished second in their division last season. He thought they might have to settle for the same again if the Eagles build on their positive momentum. But the script flips somewhat if Washington's much-maligned defensive front makes the strides needed to be more competitive.
"The Commanders are going to need the offense to really carry this team in 2025 and I'm not sure they're competing for anything other than second place in the NFC East yet again this year. But if the defense can outperform expectations after doing absolutely nothing to upgrade the pass rush off the edge, this team could give the Eagles trouble again. The Commanders could be a legitimate title contender in the NFC but that defensive front is the biggest thing holding them back."
Sayre Bedinger
Bedinger isn't alone in his thoughts. The defensive line — the pass-rushing element, in particular — is a grave cause for concern. It's the NFC East's worst by a considerable margin. It might even be in the lower echelons around the league, looking at the options available.
Dan Quinn and Peters seem content with what they have for now. Javon Kinlaw and Daron Payne came into the offseason with chips on their shoulders, which should help. Johnny Newton could excel in Year 2, and the edge players aren't lacking motivation after having their talents completely disregarded throughout the offseason.
All hope is not lost, but everything has to go right. The time for half-measures is long gone, and the Commanders won't be sneaking up on teams this time around. That makes it more difficult, but not impossible.
It'll take a monumental effort from all involved. But if everyone meets expectations and quarterback Jayden Daniels is on his ascent to NFL MVP consideration, don't count the Commanders out from toppling the Eagles just yet.
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