How the Commanders Are Really Building for 2026
The dust is still settling on the 2025 season, one where the Commanders finished a respectable 9-8 but missed the playoffs by a tiebreaker. That taste of almost, of being right there, has clearly fueled Adam Peters’ approach to the 2026 offseason. He’s not just tweaking; he’s trying to build a contender, not just a competitor.
Early Returns and Big Swings
Washington wasted no time making headlines. The biggest splash? Luring Pro Bowl guard Wyatt Davis away from the Bengals with a four-year, $72 million deal, $45 million guaranteed. Davis allowed just one sack in 2025 and was a cornerstone of Cincinnati’s top-10 rushing attack. That’s a clear signal: protect the quarterback, and run the damn ball. Peters also locked up veteran defensive tackle Daron Payne, extending him for three years, $51 million, with $30 million guaranteed. Payne, who had 7.5 sacks last season, continues to be a disruptive force in the middle. His presence allows other guys to make plays.
They didn't stop there. The Commanders snagged pass-rusher Isaiah Foskey from the Saints on a two-year, $18 million contract. Foskey, a former second-round pick, finally broke out in 2025 with 9 sacks. He’s got the burst, and playing opposite Chase Young again could unlock even more. Young himself, after a resurgent 2025 campaign that saw him notch 11 sacks, signed a monster five-year, $120 million extension back in December. That deal, with $75 million guaranteed, was the first real indicator of Peters’ long-term vision. He’s investing heavily in the trenches, and frankly, it’s about time.
The Quiet Departures and Unanswered Questions
Of course, to bring guys in, some have to go. Running back Brian Robinson Jr. was a cap casualty, released after four seasons. His production dipped to 780 rushing yards in 2025, and with a $9 million cap hit, it was a business decision. The team also let go of veteran safety Jeremy Reaves, who had been a special teams ace but saw his defensive snaps dwindle. These are tough calls, but necessary ones if you’re trying to build a sustainable winner.
Here’s the thing: while the offensive line and pass rush look significantly upgraded, the secondary still feels…thin. Cornerback Kendall Fuller is still playing at a high level, but he’s 31. The team needs another young, legitimate outside corner. They tried to sign former Eagles corner Darius Slayton, but he opted for a cheaper deal to stay in Philadelphia. That sting, losing out on a target, highlights a potential hole. Also, who’s the starting running back? Antonio Gibson is still there, but he’s never been a true bell-cow back. They need to address that in the draft, or through a cheap veteran signing. My hot take? They should have overpaid for Slayton. That secondary needs a true lockdown corner to compete with the top offenses in the NFC.
What Comes Next
Peters isn’t done. He’s got about $15 million in cap space remaining. You can bet he’s eyeing a veteran safety or another receiver. Terry McLaurin is still the unquestioned WR1, but Jahan Dotson’s 750 receiving yards in 2025 showed flashes but not consistency. They need another reliable target, especially if they want to truly open up the playbook. Look for a veteran slot receiver to join the ranks before training camp.
The Commanders are clearly aiming for more than just a winning record in 2026. They want to contend for the NFC East title, something they haven't done since 2015. With the investments made upfront, both offensively and defensively, they’re laying the groundwork. My bold prediction? The Commanders finish 11-6 and win the NFC East in 2026.