Commanders rocked as a young defender’s emergence violently collapses

The Washington Commanders are mercifully at their bye week. This time last year, fans were dreaming of potentially making a postseason run. This time around, it's an entirely different story. There's plenty of blame to be tossed around. That being said, Washington's defense was much-improved from previous weeks against the Miami Dolphins after head coach Dan Quinn took over coordinator duties from Joe Whitt Jr. The Commanders are particularly banking on growth from their long-term building blocks after the change. Some such players, including defensive lineman Javon Kinlaw and cornerback Mike Sainristil (fourth-quarter muffed punt return aside), had positive showings. Others, not so much. Entering the 2025 season, safety Quan Martin was considered one of the Commanders' top breakout candidates. He came on strong at the end of 2024, solidifying his starting spot and making some big plays during Washington's run to the NFC title game. Notably, he recorded a pick-six in the divisional round win over the Detroit