Three underrated players who will have a bigger impact on the Commanders 2025 season than people expect

The Commanders made a quiet signing with Jacob Martin this offseason, and he's going to have to fill a major gap this season by getting to the quarterback. Dante Fowler Jr. had 10.5 sacks last season, and the Commanders decided to move on with his liability in the run game. Martin won't start or play as many snaps as Fowler did since Deatrich Wise or another defensive end will be the premier option to stop the run, leaving Martin as the rotational guy to come in and produce sacks.

You can't just let 10.5 sacks of production go without replacing it, and of course, the team signed Von Miller as well, but don't sleep on Martin, who can produce when he gets on the field. He's looked great this offseason and showed speed and burst in the preseason.

OL - Andrew Wylie

Andrew Wylie was an unpopular name for Commanders fans for his first season, but he actually played a lot better last season. In 534 pass blocking snaps, Wylie surprisingly didn't allow a single sack at the right tackle position, according to PFF. He has an unclear, but vital role this season as the do-it-all offensive lineman who will have to fill in where he's needed.

Right guard Sam Cosmi is starting the season on the PUP list, and Wylie will likely be the starter until he comes back. He can also help fill in for rookie Josh Conerly Jr. in the early stages as they face a ton of top-tier pass rushers like Abdul Carter, Maxx Crosby, and Micah Parsons. It'll be interesting to see everywhere he plays this season, but my gut says he will be an important piece.

CB - Jonathan Jones

Corner Jonathan Jones was another one of those sneaky free agent signings, but he can have a bigger role than expected if Marshon Lattimore goes down again. Lattimore's hamstring injury lingered all season last year, and he says he's healthy now, but at least the Commanders are prepared just in case. Jones could probably start for a couple of cornerback-needy teams, and he can play inside and outside.

Mike Sainristil can play both as well, and you'd have flexibility with the two to play them where they look more comfortable. The Commanders can't afford to let one injury in a talented corner room send the defense downhill, and Jones can keep that from happening.

Don't be surprised if these three players take on bigger roles than expected and produce at a level that elevates the team's chances at a Super Bowl run.