As the 2025 NFL season approaches, predictions for the Washington Commanders are taking a grim turn. Despite finishing last season with a commendable 12-5 record and reaching the postseason, analysts are forecasting a challenging year ahead, with some even suggesting they could miss the playoffs entirely.
ESPN’s Bill Barnwell has expressed concerns about the Commanders’ ability to replicate their previous success. He notes that while the team made some notable offseason additions, their aging roster may hinder their performance. Washington’s reliance on veterans like Laremy Tunsil and Deebo Samuel raises questions about sustainability and depth as they face a tougher schedule this season.
Washington Commanders, Jayden Daniels, NFL
Jul 24, 2025; Ashburn, VA, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) passes a ball during practice on day two of training camp at OrthoVirginia Training Center at Commanders Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
Further complicating matters, Washington will need to navigate a competitive NFC East. With teams like the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys bolstering their rosters, the path back to the postseason looks increasingly fraught. Many analysts believe that the Commanders’ unexpected rise last season may have been a product of favorable circumstances rather than a solid foundation for sustained success.
Despite these concerns, some observers remain hopeful about the potential of quarterback Jayden Daniels. After an impressive rookie season, Daniels could lead the team to new heights if he continues to develop. However, the pressure will be on him to deliver as the team’s success heavily relies on his performance.
ESPN’s NFL Analysis Predicts Washington Commanders to Miss Playoffs
Washington Commanders, Jayden Daniels
Aug 18, 2025; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) request the ball after Commanders running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt (not pictured) scores a touchdown against Cincinnati Bengals during the first half at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images
Even thought Washington achieved a 12-5 record last season, they’re projected to miss the playoffs during this campaign. This is detailed more in an analysis by Bill Barnwell for ESPN.
The Commanders are probably my controversial pick among teams to miss the postseason. I already covered the unsustainable elements of what we saw from them in 2024 in my likely-to-decline list, including a historically great performance on fourth down, an old roster without many breakout candidates, an injury rate that’s likely to rise and a much tougher schedule after a trip to the playoffs.
I would be surprised if Washington fell entirely to the bottom of the NFC East, of course. This isn’t like the team in 2013, when Robert Griffin III came off of a serious injury and wasn’t the same player and the offense wasn’t quite as sustainable. Outside of being spectacularly efficient and successful on fourth down, nothing about Jayden Daniels’ success as a rookie hints toward mirage or flukiness. After adding Laremy Tunsil and Deebo Samuel, it’s entirely possible the Commanders improve on offense in 2025 and don’t need to rely as often on those fourth-down conversions.
As the season unfolds, Washington will need to overcome skepticism and prove its critics wrong. Maintaining its momentum from last year will require not only talent but also resilience in the face of adversity.
Washington Commanders, Jayden Daniels
Jul 24, 2025; Ashburn, VA, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) leaves the practice field on day two of training camp at OrthoVirginia Training Center at Commanders Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
The forecast for the Commanders in 2025 is not encouraging, with predictions suggesting a possible playoff absence. Fans will be watching closely to see if the team can defy expectations and secure a spot in the postseason once more.
Washington Commanders, Jayden Daniels
Aug 18, 2025; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) request the ball after Commanders running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt (not pictured) scores a touchdown against Cincinnati Bengals during the first half at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images
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