Dan Quinn is back for his third year after the Commanders took a step back from their amazing 2024 run and laid a massive egg last year. David Blough, at just 31, will take over as the new offensive coordinator. Jayden Daniels returns at quarterback. Daniels dislocated his left elbow in Week 2 against Dallas and missed the next two games. He avoided surgery and injured reserve and is expected to return to practice ahead of Week 5, with Washington hopeful he can return against the Giants. Jacory Croskey-Merritt returns as the top running back. Rachaad White will look to replace the production of the departed Chris Rodriguez. Washington also lost its top pass catcher, Deebo Samuel, to the 49ers, and Zach Ertz to free agency. Terry McLaurin returns to a new-look receiving room, with Stefon Diggs coming over from the Patriots and Chig Okonkwo from the Titans. Washington is eager to see Clemson rookie Antonio Williams, who adds another young option to the receiving room. Brandon Coleman, Chris Paul, Nick Allegretti, Sam Cosmi, and Josh Conerly Jr. return to the offensive line. Laremy Tunsil remains on injured reserve following surgery for a torn triceps but is now eligible to return.
Daronte Jones enters his first year as defensive coordinator. The Commanders return four of their top five tacklers from last season: Javon Kinlaw, Daron Payne, Frankie Luvu, and Jordan Magee. Magee was placed on injured reserve following Week 1. They also welcome Tim Settle from Houston, Odafe Oweh from the Chargers, K’Lavon Chaisson from New England, and Leo Chenal from Kansas City. In the secondary, Mike Sainristil, Nick Cross, Jeremy Reaves, and Quan Martin return, and Rasul Douglas from the Dolphins and Amik Robertson from the Lions join them.
Larry Izzo returns for his third year heading up special teams. Iowa rookie Drew Stevens will be the placekicker, and Tress Way returns as punter. Jaylin Lane suffered a fractured and dislocated ankle in Week 4 and will miss the remainder of the season. Luke McCaffrey will factor into the return game. Washington has opened the season 1-3 while playing the last two games without Daniels. His potential return would be a major boost as the Commanders look to get their season back on track.