NFL analyst reveals breakout poised to flip Commanders' weakness into strength

Things are looking up for the Washington Commanders heading into the 2025 season. Head coach Dan Quinn's squad looks primed for another deep playoff run if everyone meets expectations, but a couple of problem position groups could hold them back when push comes to shove.

Fans are extremely optimistic, but it remains a precarious situation that could go either way. One NFL analyst highlighted a potential breakout star with the scope to turn a perceived weakness into an area of strength.

The Commanders' defensive line has been under the microscope this offseason. Jonathan Allen and Dante Fowler Jr. are gone. Some sections of the fan base thought general manager Adam Peters should have done more to strengthen the ranks. That remains to be seen, but it outlines the faith in those already around and the intriguing additions who came on board.

Johnny Newton could hold the key to Commanders' defensive resurgence

Dalton Wasserman from Pro Football Focus acknowledged that Washington's defense is playing catch-up in comparison to its high-octane offense led by quarterback Jayden Daniels. However, the analyst thought Johnny Newton stepping up in his second season might be enough to tip the scales.

Washington’s defense has some catching up to do relative to the team's offense. The greatest concern is a defensive line that finished 31st in the NFL in PFF grade last season. Few major additions were made in the offseason. The hope is that a young player like defensive tackle Jer'Zhan Newton can step up in year two while veteran acquisitions Javon Kinlaw and Von Miller add some pass-rush production. Dalton Wasserman

Newton endured a torrid run of luck last offseason. His time with the Commanders began with the rookie needing foot surgeries to solve a lingering issue. That made gaining early momentum difficult, although the flashes when called upon throughout the campaign indicated that more could be on the way with additional refinement.

The former Illinois standout is an explosive pass-rushing force from the interior. Newton found it difficult to maintain his ground on running plays, which is something he must resolve to become a genuine three-down threat. He'll have benefited greatly from last season's experience, but his next challenge is kicking on to become an influential piece of the puzzle.

It'll be interesting to see what the Commanders have planned. Javon Kinlaw and Daron Payne are the starting tandem. Newton will be used as the three-technique in pass-rushing situations and come in on three-front sets. One couldn't dismiss the possibility of the second-year pro switching to the edge if there is a chance to exploit mismatches. That could be the spark that ignites him to even greater heights.

The Commanders thought a lot of Newton. Now, the time has come to repay this faith.