The Washington Commanders conclude the 2025 campaign with four straight games versus divisional opposition. This could shake the NFC East to its foundations when it's all said and done.
Washington is expected to go deep into the postseason following a sensational charge to the NFC Championship game. The defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles also fancy their chances of successfully defending their crown. The Dallas Cowboys are hyped beyond comprehension every offseason, but they always fail to meet expectations.
Then, there's the New York Giants.
Last season was an unmitigated disaster for the Giants. They won just three games, were rooted to rock bottom in the division, and eventually got the No. 3 overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Their investment in quarterback Daniel Jones failed spectacularly. To make matters worse, running back Saquon Barkley thrived with the Eagles en route to hoisting the Vince Lombardi trophy. This came after the Giants didn't believe he was worth another financial commitment.
Speculation inevitably rose regarding the futures of general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll. Both came under fire last season, but owner John Mara gave them another shot to prove themselves. The margin for error is almost non-existent, and he won't be as leniant next time around if the same trend continues.
The NFL schedule makers handed the Commanders a golden opportunity to put Daboll out of his misery. They'll get the chance to turn up the heat immediately when the Giants come to Northwest Stadium in Week 1. If improvements haven't been made by the time Washington's voyage to MetLife Stadium in Week 15 rolls around, another crippling defeat to a division rival might be enough for Mara to pull the plug.
There is a long way to go and a lot of football left before this scenario becomes reality. Daboll is confident his team can improve with Russell Wilson under center. Their defensive front seven is among the league's best, which was bolstered further by the addition of Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter. That's what the Giants should lean on in their quest to turn the tide.
As for the Commanders? They'll be looking to enhance their newfound top-level status after the sort of miraculous turnaround those in New York can only dream of. It'll be difficult, there's no getting away from that, but fans believe in the project and know they always have a chance with Jayden Daniels at the quarterback spot.
It'll be fascinating to watch things unfold, but Daboll will be hanging by a thread if the necessary strides aren't made.
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