Commanders links
Articles
Washington Post (paywall)
Exit interviews: Commanders reflect on how this season turned so sour
A year after their surprising run to the NFC title game, the Commanders are back to being bottom-dwellers. They sit at 4-12 entering Sunday’s season finale against the Philadelphia Eagles, closer to the top of April’s NFL draft than a return to the playoffs.
For a team that retained nearly its entire coaching staff, brought back most of its starters and traded future draft picks to acquire proven veterans
Laremy Tunsil and Deebo Samuel Sr. in the offseason, it’s a staggering outcome with no simple explanation.
Injuries — including the dislocated left elbow that knocked Daniels out of Washington’s loss to the Seahawks — tell part of the story. By season’s end, the Commanders will have had 32 players miss at least 156 games. But the collapse has been multifaceted.
The roster, as assembled by General Manager Adam Peters, is the oldest in the NFL and lacked the depth to compensate for injuries to key players. The offense struggled with consistency and discipline. The defense missed tackles and blew assignments at inopportune moments.
The Commanders had their moments offensively, but consistency eluded them. Defensively, it was a season-long slog. Coach Dan Quinn took over play-calling duties from defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. in Week 11, but the unit remained one of the worst in the NFL.
It will likely be an offseason of significant change. Whitt’s future in Washington is in doubt, and offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury could draw interest from other teams with openings for a head coach. A departure could have ripple effects on the rest of the staff.
Meanwhile, the roster has 35 players who are set to become free agents and a collection of others whom the team may move on from for salary cap reasons. And, of course, there will be newcomers added via trade, free agency and the draft.
For those who remain, the lessons of 2025 could prove useful in avoiding a repeat in 2026.
The Washington Post spoke with 17 of the 33players who are under contract next year. Together, they painted a nuanced portrait of when and why a promising year unraveled — and how the franchise can get back on track in 2026.
The Athletic (paywall)
The Commanders’ offseason to-do list has some clear priorities. Here are the biggest
When Quinn was hired, he said he didn’t want to repeat any perceived mistakes from his first go-round as a head coach, in Atlanta from 2015-2020. He learned in those years that he was a better coach when he was fully attentive to all three phases and delegated to his staff. It’s largely why he didn’t assume play-calling duties here and instead tabbed Joe Whitt Jr. to run the defense.
Washington enters Week 18 ranked 31st in the league in both defensive total EPA (-132.05) and turnover margin (-12), with the second-most explosive plays allowed (130) and the highest rate of opponent down set conversions (78.6 percent), according to TruMedia.
Extend a pair of valuable veterans
Tunsil’s first year as Washington’s left tackle showed why he’s been a Pro Bowl selection five times.
Keeping Tunsil won’t be cheap, but such is the price for an elite left tackle. And surely Washington didn’t give up four draft picks to keep him around for only two seasons.
Re-upping center Biadasz could be next. The 28-year-old has been one of Washington’s most reliable and consistent players since joining in ‘24. Keeping him for the long term would allow Washington to keep its front five intact for at least a couple more years
Weigh some necessary veteran cuts
There’s no recouping the lost picks, but cutting Lattimore would save $18.5 million in salary cap space (he has a $2 million roster bonus due in March, and a $16.5 million salary for 2026).
The Athletic (paywall)
What I’m hearing about the NFL coaching carousel
Commanders coach Dan Quinn is expected back for the 2026 season, though changes to the offense and the defense remain possible after Washington has slumped to a 4-12 record. Quinn took over defensive play calling from Joe Whitt Jr. in early November, and Washington has also had conversations about potentially moving on from Kingsbury even if he doesn’t get a head-coaching job. Some in the building say there’s been a disconnect between Kingsbury and general manager Adam Peters. When was the last time we were watching to see if an offensive coordinator was going to get fired while he was also preparing for head coaching interviews? We’ll see how this shakes out.
Commanders.com
3 keys to Commanders vs. Eagles
Execute in winning time moments.
The Commanders struggles with execution have been an issue all season, but it was so prevalent against the Dallas Cowboys during their Christmas game that head coach Dan Quinn called it out during his postgame press game press conference and on Monday. While he loves the team’s desire to fight, he said, that alone is not enough for them to win.
The Commanders had multiple opportunities to come away with what would have been their first home win since Week 3. Two trips inside the Cowboys’ 5-yard line ended with field goals, rather than touchdowns, and the offense couldn’t take advantage of a missed field goal from Brandon Aubrey and had to punt not long after. On defense, the Commanders forced the Cowboys into six fourth down situations but allowed them convert each one.
The Commanders had a similar situation against the Eagles on in Week 16. They managed to build a 10-7 lead at halftime but struggled on offense once Marcus Mariota left the game. The defense went on to allow 22 unanswered points from the Eagles, making the odds of a comeback slim.
Heavy.com
Nick Bellore : Cleared to play Sunday
Bellore (concussion) doesn’t carry an injury designation into Sunday’s game against the Eagles, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports. Bellore missed the Week 17 loss to the Cowboys, but the special-teamer is good to go for the regular-season finale. The 36-year-old Bellore has logged 11 tackles (seven solo) across 321 special-teams snaps.
A to Z Sports
Commanders were at the Oregon and Texas Tech game; got a good look at David Baily, a big favorite to be drafted by Washington in the 1st round
The Commanders had scouts at the Oregon and Texas Tech Orange Bowl game in the College Football Playoff, and got to see one playmaker who is a huge target to land in Washington in Arpil.
The Washington Commanders still have one game left in the season, but they’re on the road watching the best games in the College Football Playoff, as they prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft.
Scouting is a year-long process, and going to a game to watch it live is a big part of the scouts’ travel schedule during the year to see critical must-see matchups. The Commanders had scouts at the Oregon and Texas Tech Orange Bowl game in the College Football Playoff, and got to see one playmaker who is a huge target to land in Washington in Arpil.
EDGE rusher David Bailey didn’t disappoint in his final college game, and the Commanders had to be impressed with what they saw.
David Bailey dominates against Oregon in CFB Playoff showdown
The Commanders need a pass rusher this offseason, and there’s no doubt that David Bailey is the best pure pass rusher in the 2026 NFL Draft. Rueben Bain Jr. had a massive game against Ohio State, and plays with a lot of strength, but he doesn’t have the speed and pass-rush moveset that Bailey has. It didn’t take long for Bailey to show up against the Ducks, and he had a sack in the first drive that flashed his speed around the edge.
Can David Bailey be a good enough run stopper?
For as good a pass rusher as he is, people will question if he can play all three downs as a dependable run stopper, and he made his case against a really good Oregon rushing attack as well. Bain is surely the better run stopper between the two, but Bailey’s speed and ability to explode in the backfield showed themselves as well.
Riggo’s Rag
Commanders have a simple decision to make with Marshon Lattimore this offseason
The veteran cornerback was a bombshell trade acquisition before the 2024 deadline, signaling the Commanders’ return to contention. It hasn’t gone according to plan, and the chances of him being around in 2026 seem remote.
Lattimore’s hamstring injury upon joining the Commanders hindered his ability to make an immediate impact. Hopes were high that the four-time Pro Bowler could regain his old form this season, but he quickly became a weak link. And his torn ACL sustained against the Seattle Seahawks represented the final body blow.
Releasing Lattimore this offseason comes with no dead money and saves $18.5 million on Washington’s salary cap next season. This would take Peters’ available financial resources to more than $100 million, so it seems like a no-brainer.
Riggo’s Rag
Adam Peters should be preparing for Lance Newmark’s eventual exit
Washington Commanders’ assistant general manager Lance Newmark was named by Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated as a potential future NFL general manager. It is the second straight year he has made this list.
Breer collects the names of the hottest candidates by querying executives and scouts from all over the league. This year, he included 26 staffers, about half of whom are currently serving as assistant general managers.
Podcasts & videos
Tress Way on His Pro Bowl Season + Coach Kedric Golston Talks Memories | Next Man Up | Commanders
NFC East links
Eagles Wire
Eagles left tackle admits he’s contemplated an early retirement
Mailata, like Jason Kelce before him, has taken on a mentor role in the Eagles’ locker room, and like the former All-Pro center, Mailata will play a role in finding his eventual successor. While speaking with NJ Advance Media’s Cayden Steele, Mailata hinted at an early retirement, but only after he finds his replacement.
“I care a lot, man,” Mailata said. “I care a lot because I only have so long to play this game, man. Everyone’s like, ‘Oh, you can play another five years.’ Yeah, bulls—. I’m already in the phase of bringing the next guy along with me. Who’s it gonna be? I can’t tell you, but it’s a high standard playing in this city, so just gotta keep that going. And for me it’s just, I want the best for those boys. I am always going to root for the underdog.”
“In a sense, I’d feel a type of way,” Mailata said about not finding his replacement before retirement. “You just want to leave it in a good place. Leave it as you found it.”
Commanders Wire
Eagles QB Tanner McKee excited to face Commanders in Week 18
The 25-year-old McKee is in his third NFL season. He has appeared in five games, making only one start. McKee started the 2024 regular-season finale against the New York Giants and completed 27 of 41 passes (65.9%) for 269 yards and two touchdowns. The Eagles, in a similar position, rested their starters and defeated New York 20-13.
Philadelphia coaches and players believe in McKee. As for McKee, he prepares every week like he’s going to start, but understands it’s different.
“Obviously super excited for the opportunity,” McKee said Friday, via Dave Zangaro of NBC Sports Philadelphia. “But I feel like each week leading up, I’ve been preparing like I’m going to play in case I do. So I feel like preparation has been pretty similar. It’s nice to get more reps in practice, obviously. But really excited for the opportunity.”
Week 18 game
ESPN
NFL Week 18 picks, predictions, schedule, odds, fantasy tips
Commanders (4-12) at Eagles (11-5)
4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | PHI -4.5 (38.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Commanders: With LT Laremy Tunsil unlikely to play because of an oblique injury, Washington would be without 11 players who were projected starters this season. But even in a lost season, the Commanders have a few things at stake: LB Bobby Wagner needs five tackles to become the third player to reach 2,000 for his career; DE Von Miller needs another sack to give him nine and another $500,000. The Commanders can’t finish lower than seventh in the draft, but a loss Sunday could improve their pick. — John Keim
What we’re hearing on the Eagles: Philadelphia is planning to sit QB Jalen Hurts and other starters as the Eagles gear up for the playoffs. Coach Nick Sirianni is prioritizing giving some of his key players rest after another marathon season. “For the guys who are actually down this week, it’s a mental break. They need the mental break,” tackle Jordan Mailata said. “And that physical break is a huge aspect; now they can just focus on getting right for playoffs. For us, it’s the biggest advantage possible. It’s like another bye week.” — Tim McManus
Stat to know: Commanders RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt has scored a rushing touchdown in each of the past three games. He could join Antonio Gibson, Alfred Morris and Skip Hicks as the only Washington rookies with a rushing score in four or more consecutive games. — ESPN Research
NFL.com
NFL Week 18 picks: Upset and score predictions, matchup breakdowns for every game
Why Brooke picked the Eagles: Two weeks ago, Philly defeated Washington by 11 points in a game Marcus Mariota started but couldn’t finish. This time around, Mariota (hand/quad) is unlikely to take the field at all, while the Eagles reportedly are expected to rest Jalen Hurts and most starters. So gear up for this Tanner McKee vs. Josh Johnson thriller? OK, that might be a stretch.
My trust in this one rests on one person: Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. His unit has hit its stride in the second half of the season, ranking first in the NFL with 14.5 points per game allowed since Week 10. It also has at least one takeaway in eight straight games. I get that many of this unit’s stars won’t be on the field, but Fangio knows how to get the most out of the guys who are available. I don’t see that D completely folding against an already-struggling Commanders offense trotting out a 39-year-old third-string QB.
NFL league links
Articles
The Athletic (paywall)
The Raiders’ future
The Las Vegas Raiders have an inside track to the No. 1 pick in April’s draft and are likely headed toward a head-coaching change in 2026. That’s a significant amount of potential turnover, and the bigger question might not be whether 74-year-old Pete Carroll is dismissed, but who ultimately makes that decision. Is it principal owner Mark Davis? Minority owner Tom Brady? General manager John Spytek?
Maxx Crosby’s Raiders future is also being questioned around the league. Las Vegas shut down its five-time Pro Bowler last week against his wishes, and the relationship between the sides remains strained. It’s a dramatic shift from just two months ago, when Crosby and Davis nixed any trade discussions ahead of the Nov. 4 deadline. Many believe Las Vegas will be open to moving its star pass rusher if the relationship remains at an impasse, allowing Crosby, who will turn 29 this summer, an opportunity to compete on a team built to win now.
The Ringer
Ranking the Top 40 NFL Free Agents of 2026
Discussion topics
ESPN
Why Vikings’ plan for J.J. McCarthy failed — and what’s next
McCarthy’s performance, when he wasn’t missing seven games because of three separate injuries, was at times so concerning that it was reasonable to suggest he should be replaced after one season. The more likely outcome is the Vikings having a renewed interest in adding a starting-caliber veteran to pair and possibly compete with McCarthy, according to league sources. That potential move would create a more robust quarterback room than the one that doomed them in 2025.
McCarthy demonstrated some progress during a December winning streak, but it came in games against three of the NFL’s worst defenses. Entering Week 18, McCarthy’s QBR (33.9) ranks 46th out of 58 quarterbacks who have made at least one start. He has had only two games with more than 200 passing yards.
What made the Vikings think McCarthy was prepared to lead a playoff team? Why did they spend $350 million on the 2025 roster but end up with a thin quarterback room after having veterans Sam Darnold and Daniel Jones on their roster and receiving interest from Aaron Rodgers? Why did McCarthy play so poorly earlier this season — and what will become of him in 2026?
ESPN has tracked the transition since it began last spring and spoke to league and team sources about it. One of the clear takeaways is that Jones’ decision to sign with the Indianapolis Colts upended the Vikings’ plan far more than previously known. There is also widespread agreement that the Vikings overestimated McCarthy’s floor as a first-year starter.
The most optimistic spin, Warner said, is that McCarthy needs more time before a full judgment can be made.
[T]he Vikings envisioned Jones as a starting-caliber hedge against McCarthy’s inexperience and health. Team officials sensed strong positive vibes from Jones throughout the fall and winter, and they believed he would sign their offer, which was competitive with the $14 million deal he ultimately signed with the Colts.
But the Vikings had misread Jones’ level of interest in their scheme and culture. He liked the organization and the people in it, but business was business. A league source said the Colts offered the best “fit.” In other words, Jones wanted to be on the field in 2025 and thought he had a better chance of overtaking the Colts’ young quarterback — third-year pro Anthony Richardson Sr. — than McCarthy.
By default, the Vikings had made McCarthy their unquestioned starter. When the Seahawks made veteran backup Sam Howell available via trade on the final day of the draft, Adofo-Mensah took the deal.
McCarthy’s arm strength is NFL-caliber, [Kurt] Warner said, but his tendency to throw maximum-velocity passes decreases the time that receivers can adjust to inaccurate throws in the air. And Warner said it is a “very hard and very rare thing” for a player to dramatically improve accuracy at the pro level.
The Vikings thought they had surrounded him with receivers talented enough to overcome those imperfect throws, but if anything, the inconsistency of his passes seemed to have the opposite effect.
Receiver Justin Jefferson’s drop rate this season is a career-high 3.2%, nearly twice his previous career average. Tight end T.J. Hockenson’s drop rate (7.6%) more than quadrupled, as did receiver Jordan Addison’s (9.3%).
The Vikings tied for No. 30 in the NFL in completion percentage above expected (-3.5%). McCarthy and his receivers share responsibility for those numbers, but Warner said it demonstrates his view that McCarthy isn’t a “natural thrower.”
In Week 10, McCarthy referred to a competitive alter ego he called “Nine,” creating what will likely be a lifetime social media meme. He also tested the coaching staff’s patience by launching into a touchdown celebration 5 yards before scoring in Week 15 against the Cowboys. Days before, he had bobbled the ball during a similar celebration in practice and was told not to try it in a game.
In a news conference afterward, McCarthy admitted he was actually “more enticed” to celebrate after hearing the warning.
Speaking specifically about “Nine” during his weekly appearance on KFAN-100.3, O’Connell said an NFL quarterback needs confidence and a “comfort” in themselves.
Can Adofo-Mensah and O’Connell commit another season to his development?
The Vikings likely will be connected to every rumor about possible trades for an established starter
What almost everyone agreed on, however, is that the Vikings can’t fail again to acquire a veteran quarterback who can provide what Darnold delivered in 2024 and what they hoped Jones would give them in 2025.
