Jayden's Commanders Predicted To Surprise With 2 Rookie Starters

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Adam Schultz | Last updated May 5, 2025 7:13 AM ET

It was always going to be a tall order for the Washington Commanders and Jayden Daniels to replicate, or even better what they accomplished in 2024.

A 12-win season and an NFC Championship appearance is a high bar, but that doesn't mean the franchise shouldn't try and clear it - which is exactly what they're trying to do.

General manager Adam Peters orchestrated trades for five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil and All-Pro Deebo Samuel to boost the offense at two key positions.

Defensively, the Commanders added some talent in the draft, most notably Trey Amos and Josh Conerly Jr., and given that it will be the unit's second year under coordinator Joe Whitt Jr., improvement is expected.

Fox Sports' David Helman has the Commanders at No. 6 in his post-draft power rankings and doesn't envision a drop-off from the franchise in 2025.

"I was so impressed by the value the Commanders found despite picking at the back of each round of the draft," Helman wrote. "I could be wrong, but I expect Josh Conerly Jr. and Trey Amos both to push for starting jobs. I know they could use some pass rush help, but I think this team is in good shape to take a step forward."

We have heard differing opinions on what the Commanders could amount to in 2025, and it largely boils down to whether Daniels can keep ascending and if Tunsil and Samuel prove to be "hits" for the offense.

The Commanders have done a good job this offseason of surrounding their young quarterback with veteran pieces, and ones that still have plenty of juice in the tank.

If every player improves by five percent, Washington will be in a good spot to challenge, with Jayden being the franchise's crown jewel.

Granted, just because the Commanders were successful last season, doesn't mean they will be in 2025, but the franchise is putting the right pieces in place to make sure they give themselves the best possible chance to make some noise in the Super Bowl race.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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