The Washington Commanders released their first depth chart of the 2026 regular season ahead of Sunday’s opener against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field.
Jayden Daniels remains the centerpiece, but the personnel around Washington’s quarterback has changed considerably. Stefon Diggs, Chig Okonkwo, Rachaad White and several rookies joined an offense still led by Terry McLaurin. Washington also made significant changes on defense. Former Ravens edge rusher Odafe Oweh will start opposite K’Lavon Chaisson, while first-round pick Sonny Styles moves directly into the starting lineup at linebacker.
Here is the Commanders’ depth chart and what Eagles fans should know entering Week 1.
Commanders’ Week 1 depth chart
Offense
Defense
Special teams
Washington has rebuilt its receiving corps
McLaurin remains the player Philadelphia knows best,
but he is now joined by Diggs and Burks in Washington’s starting lineup. Diggs is an accomplished route runner who can align outside or move into the slot. Burks provides size and run-after-the-catch potential, while Okonkwo adds speed at tight end. The Eagles have the personnel to match up. Riq Woolen and Quinyon Mitchell are expected to handle the outside assignments, while Cooper DeJean provides flexibility in the slot.
Washington’s depth chart should force Vic Fangio to identify where Diggs is aligned before every snap.
Jacory Croskey-Merritt remains the starting running back
Washington lists Croskey-Merritt ahead of White and rookie Kaytron Allen. Croskey-Merritt rushed for 805 yards and eight touchdowns as a rookie, demonstrating the ability to create explosive plays and finish runs. White gives Washington a more established receiving option out of the backfield. The Eagles must also account for Daniels in the running game. Washington can use zone-read concepts and play-action to create hesitation among Philadelphia’s linebackers and edge defenders.
The offensive line has been reshuffled
Brandon Coleman is listed at left tackle after Laremy Tunsil suffered a significant triceps injury during training camp.
Chris Paul will start at left guard, Nick Allegretti moves into the center position, Sam Cosmi remains at right guard, and Josh Conerly Jr. starts at right tackle. Philadelphia should test the new configuration immediately. Jalyx Hunt, Nolan Smith Jr., Jonathan Greenard and the rest of the edge rotation can pressure Coleman and Conerly while Jalen Carter attacks the interior.
The challenge will be maintaining disciplined rush lanes against Daniels.
Odafe Oweh leads Washington’s pass rush
Oweh is listed as a starting outside linebacker opposite Chaisson.
His speed and athleticism give Washington an explosive option off the edge. Oweh could see snaps against Lane Johnson or Jordan Mailata, providing one of the most intriguing individual matchups of the game. Daron Payne, Tim Settle Jr. and Javon Kinlaw form a large defensive front capable of challenging Philadelphia’s running game.
The Eagles should still hold an advantage along the offensive line, but Washington has enough size and pass-rush talent to create problems if Philadelphia becomes predictable.
Sonny Styles moves directly into the starting lineup
Washington lists Styles as a starting linebacker alongside Frankie Luvu.
The No. 7 overall pick brings outstanding size and athleticism to the middle of the defense. His ability to cover, pressure quarterbacks, and pursue the football gives Washington several options. Styles will receive an immediate education against Barkley, Hurts, and Dallas Goedert. Sean Mannion can test the rookie with play-action, motion and route combinations designed to challenge his eye discipline.
Washington’s secondary offers potential opportunities
Amik Robertson and Mike Sainristil are listed as the starting cornerbacks. Rasul Douglas and Fabian Moreau are the primary backups. Washington does not list a dedicated nickel cornerback. Robertson or Sainristil could move inside in sub-packages, allowing Douglas to enter on the outside. Nick Cross and Jeremy Reaves are the starting safeties, with Quan Martin listed behind Reaves.
The group has experience and versatility, but Philadelphia should like its matchups with DeVonta Smith, Makai Lemon, Dontayvion Wicks and Hollywood Brown. Mannion can use formations and motion to identify Washington’s coverage plan before the snap.
Final analysis
The Commanders have enough talent to make the opener competitive, especially with Daniels under center. Philadelphia still appears to hold advantages along both lines and in the matchup between its receivers and Washington’s secondary.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Commanders depth chart: What Eagles fans need to know for Week 1
