This season started with the Washington Commanders harboring lofty ambitions to reach the Super Bowl. Head coach Dan Quinn spearheaded an epic renaissance in 2024, and some ultra-aggressive moves throughout the offseason only raised expectations further.
Fans were incredibly optimistic. Everything was seemingly in place. What followed over the first 11 weeks of the campaign was nothing short of catastrophic.
Instead of being among the playoff challengers, the Commanderfs are 3-8. They have lost six games in a row, and injuries have decimated the squad to an incomprehensible level. Some in the media saw regression coming a mile away, but very few (if any) thought it would be this drastic.
Quinn stated that everyone was deflated heading into the bye week, so it came at a good time. It's not hard to see why, but whether things will get better following Washington's extended period of rest remains to be seen, especially with such a challenging schedule to navigate.
Those in power will find out a lot more about their players in the coming weeks. This is a constant assessment from here on, and anyone who does not display the correct resolve and commitment in the face of adversity will likely be shown the door.
It'll be interesting to see if there is any response from this demoralized squad. Before then, here are three winners and four losers at the Commanders' merciful 2025 bye week.
Winners and losers at the Commanders' rock bottom 2025 bye week
Loser No. 1
Joe Whitt Jr. - Commanders DC
Let's get the most obvious one out of the way first. Joe Whitt Jr. went from receiving head-coaching interest during the 2025 hiring cycle to being demoted from defensive play-calling responsibilities in just a few short months. That is a damning indictment of how things have unfolded throughout the campaign.
Whitt was devoid of ideas or inspiration. While this isn't the most talented defense, its flaws have been ruthlessly exposed. The required adjustments weren't made, and the alarming frequency with which opposing offenses put up points at will was a complete embarrassment.
Dan Quinn had seen enough. The head coach took over the defense in Week 11 against the Miami Dolphins, and the improvements were evident. That's not an excellent look for Whitt, who could potentially leave the franchise in 2026 unless he accepts a lesser role on the coaching staff.
There is no doubt that Whitt's reputation around the league has been tarnished. He respects Quinn, but perhaps a parting of the ways could be the best possible solution for all parties.