Joe Theismann Predicts Washington Commanders Bounce-Back Season

Super Bowl champion Joe Theismann expressed optimism regarding the Washington Commanders' potential for a rebound season despite the team finishing with a 5-12 record last year [1]. The former quarterback attributed the team's recent struggles to significant injuries and fatigue, noting that the defense was particularly susceptible in key areas throughout the 17-game schedule [1].

Key takeaways

• Joe Theismann believes the Commanders are positioned for a bounce-back year after a 5-12 finish in 2024 [1].
• The team’s defense, which ranked 27th in the league by allowing 26.5 points per game, was a primary focus for offseason improvements [1].
• Washington added defensive talent through the draft, including No. 7 overall pick Sonny Styles, and signed several high-profile free agents [1].
• The team has implemented changes at offensive coordinator, with David Blough replacing Kliff Kingsbury to introduce a new offensive approach [1].
• The NFC East remains a competitive division, with Theismann noting that the Giants, Cowboys, and Eagles have all made efforts to improve their rosters [1].

Defensive Overhaul and Strategic Shifts

To address a defense that struggled significantly last season, the Commanders invested heavily in new personnel [1]. The team selected Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles with the seventh overall pick in the NFL Draft, a move Theismann described as a "special" addition for the future [1]. Furthermore, the organization bolstered its defensive front and linebacker corps through free agency, signing former Chargers pass rusher Odafe Oweh to a four-year, $100 million deal, linebacker Leo Chenal for $24.75 million over three years, and defensive tackle Tim Settle on a three-year, $24 million contract [1].

On the offensive side of the ball, the Commanders parted ways with coordinator Kliff Kingsbury and promoted David Blough to the role [1]. Theismann anticipates a shift in play-calling, noting that the new system will emphasize play-action and under-center formations [1]. Quarterback Jayden Daniels, who was limited to seven games last season due to injury, utilized the end of the year to begin acclimating to these tactical changes, potentially giving him a head start on the new scheme [1]. Additionally, star wide receiver Terry McLaurin is expected to be an active participant in the offseason program this year, following a contract holdout that kept him away for much of the previous cycle [1].

Why it matters

The Commanders are attempting to navigate a division that Theismann describes as increasingly competitive [1]. While he believes Washington has improved, he cautioned that the Giants, Cowboys, and Eagles are also making adjustments to strengthen their respective rosters [1]. As the team looks to move past the wear and tear of the previous season, the success of their defensive investments and the transition to a new offensive system will be critical factors in their ability to compete within the NFC East [1]. Theismann, who spent his entire 12-season career with the franchise, continues to follow the team closely as they aim to return to the form that saw them reach the NFC Championship in 2024 [1].