Commanders defense has several reasons to be optimistic for 2026
There's no question that Washington's defense will be much better in 2026. How much better?
The Washington Commanders' defense finds several reasons to be optimistic about the 2026 season. Daronte Jones, the new defensive coordinator, brings experience from his time working under Brian Flores in Minnesota. The 2025 defensive line underperformed, but Daron Payne is in a contract year, making him highly motivated. Ricky Barber showed promise during training camp, and Tim Settle is expected to bolster the defensive line's middle.
The team's edge rushers are much deeper, as four of the five from the 2025 team are either new or improved. Javontae Jean-Baptiste is likely to replace the suspended Dorance Armstrong, who was out for the entire 2025 season. The Commanders bolstered their pass rush with the signings of Leo Chenal and the drafting of Sonny Styles and Frankie Luvu.
Jordan Magee and Kain Medrano will return for their third and second seasons, respectively. Washington's decision to keep only three corners was surprising, but they made up for it by retaining a fifth safety and releasing Will Harris. Nick Cross and Jeremy Reaves could be promising signings. Despite Jeremy Reaves' recent focus on special teams, Fabian Moreau re-signed with the team.
Trey Amos will start the season on IR, and the Commanders added two solid veterans to the practice squad.
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