2025 NFL Preview: Washington Commanders Season Outlook, Schedule & Prediction

2025 WASHINGTON COMMANDERS SEASON PREVIEW

The Washington Commanders were the surprise team of the league last season. Washington came up small in the season opener but would go onto win six of the next seven games. This includes a coming-out party against the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday Night. The Commanders hit a three-game skid before winning the final five games of the year. Jayden Daniels then led Washington to the NFC Championship Game for the first time in three decades.

OFFENSE

The emergence of Jayden Daniels during his rookie season has Commander fans excited for the 2025 season.

After a historic rookie season and a trip to the NFC Championship Game, the Commanders made sure to load up on the offensive side of the ball. This includes two major veteran additions.

Along the offensive line, Laremy Tunsil was acquired in an offseason trade to anchor the left tackle position. He now joins Tyler Biadasz and Sam Cosmi along the line. The Commanders used a first-round pick on right tackle Josh Conerly Jr. He will join Brandon Coleman as young linemen who have high ceilings.

On the outside, there was a major negotiation during the offseason with Terry McLaurin. After the preseason games ended, McLaurin signed a three-year extension and is now back in the wide receiver room. Another big-slash move was when the Commanders acquired Deebo Samuel from the San Francisco 49ers. Zach Ertz is another big-name pass catcher after a strong debut season in D.C.

There was a shakeup in the backfield as well. The Commanders sent Brian Robinson Jr. to San Francisco after seeing what they had. Jacory Croskey-Merritt was a seventh-round pick who the Commanders believe can turn into a starting back. Chris Rodriguez and Jeremy McNicholls also have high ceilings with veteran Austin Ekeler.

DEFENSE

The Commanders offense led the team to the semifinals last year and it is now time for the defense to catch up. This was a priority in the offseason.

The secondary looks far better than it did at this time last season. Marshon Lattimore is expected to enter the season at full strength. He will start alongside second-round pick Trey Amos on the outside. The Commanders also added Jonathan Jones as depth with Mike Sainristill in the slot.

The safety position is also bolstered with the emergence of Quan Martin and the free-agent addition of Will Harris.

The linebacker position is also in good standing with the same duo from last season. Franklie Luvu is among the top linebackers in the league while Bobby Wagner still plays at a high level. The Commanders added Von Miller as well to help aid in the pass rush.

The edge is the major concern for the team despite some additions along the defensive line. Javon Kinlaw has looked strong in preseason next to Daron Payne. On the outside, Miller will help with the pass rush while Deatrich Wise is a run stuffer.

If the defense can play up to the level of the offense this season, Washington has a chance to make another deep run.

SCHEDULE

Week 1: at New York Giants

Week 2: at Green Bay Packers (Thursday Night)

Week 3: vs. Las Vegas Raiders

Week 4: at Atlanta Falcons

Week 5: at Los Angeles Chargers

Week 6: vs. Chicago Bears (Monday Night)

Week 7: at Dallas Cowboys

Week 8: at Kansas City Chiefs (Monday Night)

Week 9: vs. Seattle Seahawks

Week 10: vs. Detroit Lions

Week 11: vs. Miami Dolphins (Madrid)

Week 12: BYE WEEK

Week 13: vs. Denver Broncos

Week 14: at Minnesota Vikings

Week 15: at New York Giants

Week 16: vs. Philadelphia Eagles

Week 17: vs. Dallas Cowboys (Christmas Day)

Week 18: at Philadelphia Eagles

Record Prediction: 10-7