Washington commanders were one of the worst football defenses during the 2023 season. Under Ron Rivera, the unit had the worst pass of the league and fought even the worst sports offenses.
Things radically changed in 2024 under Dan Quinn. Washington saw his pass defense collide with the third best in the league, and their race defense was a key element of his success.
Advertisement
Despite the clear turnaround, everyone does not see a continuous set of success for the team entering the 2025 season.
The writer of Bleacher Report, Gary Davenport, ranked the 32 defenses of the NFL, And the commanders arrived at No. 23. The great reason for which Davenport is so low?
Losing key players along the defensive line and not replacing them with upgrades.
“Washington commanders impressed defensively against the pass last year – only two teams granted fewer yards in the air,” wrote Davenport. “However, the commanders were just on average in total defense and the defense of score, largely due to a defense of racing which abandoned 137.5 yards per game on the field, most of the league.
Advertisement
“Unfortunately, there are few reasons to expect the defense to run is much better this year. Commanders lost the Jonathan Allen platform in the free agency, and its replacement (Javon Kinlaw) is a demotion. Bobby Wagner will probably be dedicated to Canton, but at 35, his best days are behind him.”
Allen’s departure and Wagner’s age is certainly something with which commanders are playing at the moment. In a division with superior offenses, Washington plays against very good teams.
Time will tell us if their 23rd place will be correct in the new season.
Related: the commanders reign from the terrorist finish reveal the facts NFL Keys
Related: Commanders protecting the “greatest asset” winning energy praise
