Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne stands on the field on day one of minicamp. Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

The one issue Washington Commanders must fix to make Super Bowl run

Originally posted on Washington Commanders on SI
By Jeremy Brener | Last updated Jul 7, 2025 4:00 PM ET

The Washington Commanders defense needed to improve during the offseason, and there's reason to think that will be the case.

Signing Javon Kinlaw, Deatrich Wise Jr. and Eddie Goldman is expected to help the Commanders get better up front. The veterans should help fill in the gap of losing Jonathan Allen, who signed with the Minnesota Vikings.

The Athletic contributor Jacob Robinson emphasized the need for the defense to improve.

Commanders defense eyes big improvement

"Adding size was the offseason focus for Daniels and Washington’s defense. The latter needed it more, as the Commanders’ run defense allowed 1.93 yards before contact (fourth-most) and 4.8 yards per carry (tied for third-most). Their line needs DT Daron Payne to revert to Pro Bowl form. Early reports are promising," Robinson wrote.

Payne is expected to be a key part of the defense in the upcoming season and his success could be directly tied to the unit.

If Payne performs well, the Commanders defense could be better in 2025. If he doesn't, it could be a long season for Washington on the defensive side of the ball.

Washington's defense doesn't need to be the league's best, but it needs to be serviceable to allow Jayden Daniels and the offense to not need to score 30 or more points to win games this season.

The Commanders defense will look to get better in training camp later this month. Rookies report on July 18 while veterans arrive on July 22.