Washington Commanders 2024 Preview

The Washington Commanders head into the 2024 season with a lot to prove after a dismal 2023 campaign that saw them finish with just four wins. Expectations are low, with a win total over/under set at 6.5, but there is optimism that the team can improve under new leadership.

Former Atlanta head coach Dan Quinn takes the reins, and he’ll be tasked with turning around a franchise that has struggled mightily on both sides of the ball.

Let’s dive into what to expect from the Commanders this season.

Key Insights and Team Overview

The Commanders made some bold moves in the offseason, starting with selecting Jaden Daniels in the draft to take over at quarterback. The offense was one of the worst in the league last year, and the defense wasn’t much better, leading to an overhaul on both fronts. With a new head coach, a new quarterback, and several key additions, the Commanders are hoping to defy expectations and claw their way back to respectability.

Offensive Changes

Jaden Daniels Takes the Helm:

Rookie Quarterback: The Commanders used their draft pick on Jaden Daniels, a highly touted rookie known for his accuracy and ability to make plays with both his arm and legs. Daniels is an upgrade at the quarterback position, even if he doesn’t light the league on fire right away. His development will be crucial for the Commanders’ success.
Revamped Offensive Line:
- Struggles in 2023: Washington’s offensive line was a major weakness last year, allowing 65 sacks, which tied for 30th in the league. Both starting tackles, Andrew Wylie and Charles Leno, struggled mightily, with each giving up over 10 sacks.
- New Faces: The Commanders will have a new left tackle, as Leno is no longer with the team, though it’s unclear who will replace him. Additionally, Nick Allegretti from Kansas City joins as a new guard, and Tyler Biadasz, formerly of Dallas, steps in at center. These changes could help stabilize the line, but it remains a work in progress.

New Weapons in the Passing Game:

Terry McLaurin Still the Star: McLaurin is the clear WR1, having posted his fourth consecutive 1,000-yard season in 2023 despite the team’s offensive struggles. He’s a star wide receiver waiting for a quarterback who can fully utilize his talents.
Additions at Receiver and Tight End:
- Luke McCaffrey: Drafted in the third round, McCaffrey is expected to contribute right away, with the ability to play both inside and outside.
- Zach Ertz: Returning to the NFC East, Ertz provides a veteran presence at tight end, though his recent injury history is a concern. He caught just 10 passes in 2023, but if healthy, he could be a reliable target for Daniels.

Running Back Upgrades:

Austin Ekeler Joins the Backfield: The Commanders made a big splash by signing Ekeler, who is known for his versatility as both a runner and receiver. While his rushing numbers dipped last year (3.2 yards per carry), he’s still a significant upgrade over Antonio Gibson, particularly in the passing game.
Brian Robinson’s Role: Robinson will continue to be a factor, especially between the tackles. He rushed for over 700 yards and 5 touchdowns last season, and his physical running style complements Ekeler’s more dynamic skill set.

Defensive Adjustments

Defensive Struggles and Overhaul:

Poor 2023 Performance: The Commanders’ defense was one of the worst in the league last year, ranking 32nd in both points and yards allowed per game. They struggled to generate pressure, finishing 26th in sacks and 31st in QB pressure rate.
New Edge Rushers:
- Dante Fowler and Clelin Ferrell: Washington brought in Fowler, who had 4 sacks with Dallas, and Ferrell, who recorded 3.5 sacks with San Francisco. These additions aim to bolster a pass rush that sorely missed the mid-season trades of two key edge rushers.
- Dorrance Armstrong: Another key acquisition, Armstrong had 7.5 sacks last season and will be expected to lead the pass rush. However, the overall effectiveness of this group remains a big question mark.

Secondary Overhaul:

Struggles in Coverage: Washington’s secondary was the easiest to throw on last season, allowing the highest passer rating and the most yards per game. They’ve made several changes, including adding Michael Davis from the Chargers, though he allowed 9 touchdowns last year.
Young Talent: The Commanders are relying on the continued development of Emmanuel Forbes, who had a tough rookie season, and Juan Martin, who showed promise with a couple of interceptions. They also drafted Mike Sainristil in the second round, a player known for his awareness and ball skills.

Linebacker Upgrades:

Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu: Washington made significant upgrades at linebacker, signing Bobby Wagner, who led the NFL with 183 tackles last season, and Frankie Luvu, who had 125 tackles and 5.5 sacks with Carolina. These additions should help shore up a defense that was porous against both the run and pass.
Jamin Davis: Davis, who had almost 90 tackles last season, will continue to play a key role in the linebacker corps. The Commanders need him to step up to complement the new additions.

Season Outlook

The Commanders are a team in transition, with a wide range of possible outcomes depending on how quickly their new pieces gel. Their win total floor and ceiling reflect the uncertainty surrounding this team:

Win Total Floor: 3 Wins

Why? The Commanders face a tough schedule and have many question marks on both sides of the ball. If Jaden Daniels struggles as a rookie and the defense doesn’t improve significantly, Washington could find itself at the bottom of the standings once again.

Win Total Ceiling: 9 Wins

Why? If Daniels plays well and the new-look defense comes together under Dan Quinn, the Commanders have the potential to surprise some teams. The additions of Ekeler and Wagner could provide the spark needed for a turnaround, leading to a respectable 9-8 season.

Final Thoughts

The Washington Commanders are entering a new era with a rookie quarterback and significant changes on both offense and defense. While expectations are low, there is potential for improvement if the new additions perform as hoped. Jaden Daniels’ development will be the key to the Commanders’ future, and the defense must make strides to support him. Whether they hit their ceiling or floor will depend on how quickly the team can come together under Dan Quinn’s leadership.

Key Points Recap

Jaden Daniels is the new starting quarterback, bringing hope for the future but also uncertainty.
Austin Ekeler upgrades the running back position, adding versatility and a reliable safety valve in the passing game.
Terry McLaurin remains the star receiver, waiting for a quarterback who can fully utilize his talents.
The offensive line has been revamped, with several new starters aiming to improve last year’s dismal performance.
The defense was one of the worst in the league, but the additions of Dante Fowler, Dorrance Armstrong, Bobby Wagner, and Frankie Luvu provide hope for improvement.
The secondary is still a concern, with Michael Davis and Emmanuel Forbes needing to step up.

Commanders fans, it’s going to be a season of growth and transition. Keep an eye on how the new pieces fit together as Washington looks to rebuild and compete in the tough NFC East.

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