ESPN doesn't think much of the Washington Commanders this season. In their preseason power rankings, released after all 32 teams had released their initial 53-man roster, the Washington Commanders ranked No. 20 in the NFL and third in the NFC East; only the New York Giants ranked lower. This is what their analyst John Keim had to say:
“Milestone to watch: Quarterback Jayden Daniels setting a franchise record for single-season TD passes.
The only time a Washington quarterback threw for more than 30 touchdowns was Sonny Jurgensen in 1969 (31). Daniels threw for 25 in his rookie season, and the Commanders have a stronger receiving corps than last season with Terry McLaurin, Stefon Diggs and promising rookie Antonio Williams. Daniels also has looked
ultra-sharp in David Blough's new offense in practices. If Daniels stays healthy -- and the offensive line without Laremy Tunsil can protect him -- he can top Jurgensen. -- John Keim”
The milestone to watch is certainly interesting. Daniels actually already cracked the top 10 on this list his rookie season in 2024 when he had 25 passing touchdowns. With three good receivers - McLaurin, Diggs and Williams - plus a mediocre run game, it is certainly possible for Daniels to break the franchise single-season touchdown pass record.
Of more concern to Commanders fans is Washington being ranked No. 20 in the league with the Philadelphia Eagles far ahead of them at No. 5 and the Dallas Cowboys at No. 15. There does not seem to be any belief that Washington has a shot to make the playoffs this season; this appears to be related to concerns regarding Daniels’ durability and the offensive line.
Both concerns are understandable. Daniels had three separate injuries last season, and the offensive line is without their best player, Laremy Tunsil, for most of the season. Furthermore, Daniels was sacked 18 times in the eight games he played in. On the other hand, Marcus Mariota appeared in 11 total games and was only sacked 16 times, so it seems like some of these sacks may be Daniels’ fault.
This team will only go as far as Jayden Daniels. If he plays like he did in his rookie year in 2024 and stays healthy all season, Washington could get back in the playoffs and prove they are one of the better teams in the NFL. However, if Daniels misses time, they will probably be right around No. 20 in the league.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Where do Commanders rank in ESPN's preseason power rankings?
