With the bulk of the 2026 roster already in place, the Washington Commanders have been tabbed one of the most improved teams this offseason
After a breakout year one was followed up by a letdown, injury-ridden year two, one outlet is optimistic on what could materialize for the Washington Commanders in year three of the Dan Quinn era.
The Commanders were tabbed among the most improved teams this offseason by Eric Williams of FOX Sports, checking at fourth overall. The Kansas City Chiefs led the rankings ahead of the New Orleans Saints, Cincinnati Bengals and Commanders while the Tennessee Titans rounded out the top five.
The notable additions featured on the defensive side of the ball paint the picture for increased optimism for the Commanders, who enter the 2026 season with a 7.5 projected win total. The reinforcements across the front seven in linebackers Sonny Styles and Leo Chenal, along with edge rushers Odafe Oweh and K'Lavon Chaisson, adds to the improved depth in the trenches for the Commanders.
That improved depth could lead to an "emphasis on improved pass rush," as Williams noted, just like general manager Adam Peters prioritized this offseason with all eyes on Oweh to put together a complete season after flashing yet struggling with consistency through his first five years in the NFL.
Williams also highlighted the pair of impact additions on offense in tight end Chig Okonkwo and running back Rachaad White, though Okonkwo could be the one who becomes a focal point in his first season with the organization. The need to add a versatile, athletic tight end that can factor into the passing attack was a clear need, especially after veteran Zach Ertz saw his 2025 season cut short due to season-ending injury.
The question remains whether Washington did enough on offense to insulate quarterback Jayden Daniels with enough weapons in year three, though veteran Stefon Diggs serves as a notable name who remains available and can upgrade the 2026 starters. Washington also signed both Van Jefferson and Dyami Brown, one of two former draft picks to re-join the organization, while re-signing Treylon Burks to round out the likely 2026 rotation alongside Terry McLaurin. Jaylin Lane and Luke McCaffrey will also look to carve out roles.
Still, Williams is bullish on a Commanders squad that "made wholesale changes on offense and defense" across both the roster and coaching staff.
"The Commanders should improve this upcoming season and be back in the race for the NFC East division title."
Washington's full 2026 schedule will be unveiled on Thursday with the international games announced on Wednesday.
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