Dan Quinn
Getty
Commanders head coach Dan Quinn before a January 4, 2026 game.
The Washington Commanders added tight end Chig Okonkwo, who they expect to address offensive needs and challenge defenses. Okonkwo joined the “Grant and Danny” show to discuss his role, his frustrations with Tennessee, and insights into the coaching staff’s plans.
“Coach Quinn and just they all just had a vision for me, man. Just to come out here and just be a playmaker. Be explosive, be that spark, be that guy who can run routes and do different things. Just be a playmaker with the plays that I’m given.”
From the outset, Okonkwo mentioned his ability to make plays. For example, according to Pro Football Focus, the 26-year-old thrived on the left side of the field, including a 39-yard catch. Despite having a rookie quarterback and a struggling offensive line, Okonkwo recorded career highs in targets (79), catches (56), and yards (560).
While Zach Ertz played well enough, he is in his mid-30s and lacks the burst and ability to run away from defenders that Okonkwo brings to the Commanders. In comparison, Ertz’s 123 yards after the catch sit 219 fewer than the presumed Commanders starter at tight end. Moreover, Okonkwo destroyed zone coverage and tallied 382 yards against it.
Chig Okonkwo
GettyCommanders TE Chig Okonkwo in the open field as a member of the Tennessee Titans.
Okonkwo Believes in Pro-Style Offense
While variations of the spread continue to flourish in the NFL, Okonkwo discussed his faith in what new offensive coordinator David Blough sees as a form of the pro-style offense. Specifically, Washington wants to run the ball downhill with a burst. As a result, they signed free agent running back Rachaad White.
Additionally, rumors continue to swirl that if Notre Dame standout back Jeremiyah Love is available with the No. 7 pick, the Commanders will draft him. This philosophy benefits Okonkwo, who has 4.52 speed, making him capable of outrunning most linebackers and some safeties.
Chig Okonkwo 56 REC, 560 YDS, 2 TDs 2025 Season Highlights.
Newest Commanders TE. pic.twitter.com/tXkADUwyNY https://t.co/fEUKb2swil
— Football Performances (@NFLPerformances) March 11, 2026
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Terry McLaurin’s Success Initiates a Butterfly Effect
Earlier in the offseason, Blough mentioned that he wants to heavily feature McLaurin in the passing game. Anticipating this, over the course of four quarters, defenses will start to shade the safety over the top. When that happens, it leaves the middle of the field open, potentially allowing Okonkwo to win on post-and-drag patterns.
Plus, mixing in a rub route would throw defenders off their stride, forcing them to either bubble over the top or scrape underneath to stay with the tight end.
Chig Okonkwo
GettyNew Commanders tight end Chig Okonkwo looks to initiate contact against New Orleans Sainst.
NFC East Becoming Tight End Paradise With Washington’s Addition.
If you lay out the offenses of the NFC East across the board, one parallel maintains a strong thread through all of them: they all employ a tight end well capable of flying past the sticks. However, not every team can cover tight ends like Okonkwo. The Commanders’ signing of linebacker Leo Chenal addresses that issue. Plus, in practice, the two will more than likely line up against each other, giving each the chance to hone their skills.
In the big picture, Jayden Daniels needed playmakers, and, in certain respects, he still does. For example, a No. 2 receiver on the outside would help McLaurin avoid bracketing and constant double teams. Now, Okonkwo, who can also line up wide, gives defensive coordinators something else to think about. Looking ahead, what will he bring to the offense in 2026?