No one’s talking about the Commanders’ breakout star hiding in plain sight

Much has been made about the Washington Commanders' lack of legitimate pass-rushing options heading into the campaign. Adam Peters signed Von Miller to a one-year deal, but asking him to return to his All-Pro standards at this extremely late stage of his career is unfair and unrealistic in equal measure.

Miller should help in some capacity. But Peters' lack of urgency could also be a sign that one player is finally ready to break out and become a genuine No. 1 option at long last.

The Commanders wasted no time in acquiring Dorance Armstrong Jr. when free agency began last year. Dan Quinn worked with him previously on the Dallas Cowboys and was confident he had a lot more to give in a prominent role. Expectations were high, but the edge presence didn't quite meet them.

Armstrong flashed promise without ever putting up lofty numbers. His 46 total pressures ranked 33rd around the league, and his five sacks suggest that finishing off plays more effectively should be high on the player's list of offseason improvement priorities.

Commanders need Dorance Armstrong Jr. to become a team alpha in 2025

The former fourth-round pick's 76.4 pass-rushing grade from Pro Football Focus was encouraging. Armstrong didn't fare well against the run, so that's another area of growth that can help raise his influence from week to week.

Washington isn't ready to give up on Armstrong just yet. He's their top pass-rushing option heading into the campaign and a guaranteed starter at one of the defensive end spots. That's a big confidence boost, but the need to enhance these problem areas of his game cannot be overstated.

Armstrong needs to step up. The Commanders need him to approach double-digit sacks and become a force on running plays. Otherwise, they'll be relying on journeymen and veterans way past the peak of their powers.

That's not a recipe for success. And the notion shouldn't be lost on Armstrong, who's got the benefit of culture and scheme familiarity entering Year 2 with the squad in Washington.

Peters fortified the edge-rushing room with another productive weapon before Week 1 against the New York Giants. That won't change the responsibilities on Armstrong's shoulders, and hopes are high that he can take another step forward into a dependable threat capable of generating pressure consistently.

Armstrong is still only 28 years old and firmly in the prime of his playing career. But flashing promise is no longer enough.

If the penny finally drops for Armstrong this season, a breakout campaign won't be too far behind.

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