Theismann Backs Commanders Rebound After 5-12 Season as Defense Gets $148.75 Million Overhaul
Updated
Updated · Fox News · May 31
Theismann Backs Commanders Rebound After 5-12 Season as Defense Gets $148.75 Million Overhaul
2 articles · Updated · Fox News · May 31
Joe Theismann said Washington can rebound in 2026 after a 5-12 season, arguing injuries, defensive breakdowns and late-season fatigue derailed a team that had reached the 2024 NFC Championship.
26.5 points allowed per game — 27th in the NFL — drove the offseason reset, with Washington drafting linebacker Sonny Styles at No. 7 and adding Odafe Oweh, Leo Chenal and Tim Settle in free agency.
Jayden Daniels, limited to seven games by injury, is already working in new coordinator David Blough’s system, which Theismann expects to feature more play-action and snaps under center than Kliff Kingsbury’s offense.
Terry McLaurin is expected to take part in this year’s offseason program after missing most of last year’s work during a contract holdout, giving Washington another boost on offense.
Theismann still warned the NFC East has strengthened, citing improvements by the Giants and Cowboys while saying the Eagles remain the division benchmark.
After a $100M defensive overhaul, why do analysts predict another losing season for the Commanders?
Have the Commanders' massive offseason moves truly closed the gap on the Eagles and Cowboys?
Can a new blitz-heavy scheme unlock the potential of Washington's $100 million pass rusher?