One 'outstanding question' for Commanders ahead of training camp

[ASFN Admin]

Did the Washington Commanders do enough to help quarterback Jayden Daniels this offseason? Stop me if you've heard that question a time or three in recent months.

The Athletic recently asked "one outstanding question" for all 32 NFL teams while everyone is on summer break. Nicki Jhabvala asked that familiar question for the Commanders.

After finishing last season 5-12, the Commanders prioritized rebuilding the defense and creating a more “balanced” offense. They overhauled the systems on both sides of the ball, added speed and youth across the roster and spent more than $421 million in total contract value this offseason. But after OTAs and minicamp, the team still clearly lacks a true No. 2 receiver behind Terry McLaurin, doesn’t have an obvious leader in the running backs room and has questionable depth at tight end — all issues that contributed to their fall last season. It’s possible the team will consider adding a wideout later in the offseason or even after training camp, especially if a certain disgruntled 49er gets released. It’s also possible the Commanders find success with a running backs-by-committee approach, and develop their young tight ends behind Chig Okonkwo into reliable pass catchers. But as of now, the team lacks a consistent playmaker alongside Daniels and its star receiver.

Everything Jhabvala said here is fair and true. GM Adam Peters swung big in free agency for Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce, but he wanted to remain in Indianapolis. Washington pivoted, bringing back Dyami Brown after one unproductive year in Jacksonville. Peters also added veteran Van Jefferson and used a third-round pick on Antonio Williams. The Commanders believe Williams could have a big rookie year in David Blough's offense.

If you judge this offseason by the wide receiver position only, then sure, it's fair to question if enough was done. Terry McLaurin turns 31 in September, and for the first time in his career, missed significant time with an injury last season. That doesn't mean it will happen again. McLaurin looks healthy and motivated to put last season behind him. But what if he misses several games with a hamstring injury? That's a scary thought. The Commanders have done a good job of building a deeper and better wide receiver room. But a true standout option opposite McLaurin remains a question.

Washington did sign tight end Chig Okonkwo, and he could be the No. 2 receiver. Keep an eye on Williams, too. It's also important to remember the offseason isn't quite over. Yes, the Commanders could still sign Brandon Aiyuk once the 49ers cut him. Stefon Diggs remains an intriguing option.

It's really hard to answer this question until the games begin. But it's unfair to say Peters didn't do enough. He overhauled the defense in one offseason. That alone should help Daniels, even if the improvement isn't significant. That's how bad Washington's defense was last season. Offensively, a new scheme should also benefit Daniels by providing a more traditional running game and increased play-action opportunities. Daniels can be lethal in the play-action passing game, using his legs and arm.

Did they do enough? The jury is still out, which is why the Commanders are such a mystery team for 2026.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: One 'outstanding question' for Commanders ahead of training camp

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