Coming off an impressive run to the NFC Championship last season just one year into the rebuild, the Washington Commanders entered the 2025 season with high hopes. The Commanders over the off-season only got better on paper, acquiring all pro wide receiver Deebo Samuel, all pro offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil along with other key players like defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw and safety Will Harris. Seven games into the season, however, the narrative has shifted. The Commanders sit at a disappointing 3-4, far below the expectations set by their season last year. With over ten starting Commanders injured including the whole starting wide receiver core, the Commanders are now battling against time to get wins under their belt for the playoffs.
The start of the season had been filled with inconsistency on both sides of the ball. On offense, the team has struggled to sustain drives and convert in critical situations. The offense also constantly fails in clutch situations converting only around 30% this year on 3rd down conversions ranking 25th among all teams. Last season, the Commanders were significantly better specifically on 3rd and 4th down conversions, ranking as the top team in clutch conversions. Quarterback play has been uneven with Jayden Daniels battling injuries while simultaneously trying to carry the whole offensive load. Key players like Terry Mclaurin, Noah Brown, and quarterback Jayden Daniels, have missed significant time due to injuries which has led to poor offensive play as the team relies on third and fourth string players to fill in the roles of key players.
Defensively the Commanders have been nothing but lackluster in all aspects. The team’s defensive line is currently missing three of their starters and the unit has not been able to consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks which forces secondary challenges. The Commanders rank first as the oldest team in the NFL and it is evident on defense. Players like Marshon Lattimore, Bobby Wagner, and Von Miller who were once stars of the NFL have not lived up to expectations. Lattimore has allowed over 30 yards per game and has yet to record an interception since joining in 2024. Wagner continues to lack speed due to his old age and consistently allows big runs from younger players like running back Bijan Robinson who recorded over 100 total yards against Wagner and the Commanders. Fans have called for the firing of defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. as many grow frustrated of his lack of preparation and scheming for key players.
One of the most glaring factors in the Commanders’ underwhelming start has been the inability to win the close games that outline their success last season. The Commanders were able to win ten games that all went down to the last drive. Washington found a way to finish strong and narrowly beat opponents in tight games during their playoff run, winning two games on game-winning drives. This year, however, the team has struggled to execute in crunch time, losing every game when it comes down to the last minute.
Injuries have also played a major role, affecting both the offensive and defensive units. While injuries are unavoidable, the timing and impact is significant as the team can only afford to lose 2-3 games for any playoff chances, and as the team gets ready to play the hardest stretch of the season playing Seattle, Kansas City, and Detroit all which are top contenders in their next three games.
Despite the rocky start, it may not be all over. Washington still has a talented roster, finishing top six in the NFL preseason poll, and the potential to turn the season around. The core players who led the team to the NFC Championship still remain, and with healthy adjustments, better execution, the Commanders could still salvage their season. The team’s next few match-ups will be crucial in determining whether they can regain momentum and have a chance at the playoffs or continue to slide down the rankings.
