The Commanders' 2026 season will heavily rely on the health and performance of quarterback Jayden Daniels.
The 23-year-old was limited to seven games last season due to injury, and his absence significantly impacted Washington's chances. Daniels suffered three separate injuries in 2025, costing him a total of 10 games.
The Commanders' struggles in 2025 were largely attributed to Daniels' lack of availability, with the team finishing the season with a 5-12 record. This was a stark contrast to their 12-5 record and NFC Championship Game appearance in 2024.
Ben Arthur of Fox Sports believes that Daniels is Washington's X-Factor in 2026. "You could almost say that Daniels is Washington's X-Factor in 2026," Arthur said. "That's what great quarterbacks do. They elevate those around them."
When healthy, Daniels has shown the ability to elevate his teammates and make a significant impact on the game. In his rookie season, he played in 17 games and threw for 4,300 yards with 25 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
The Commanders will be introducing a new offense in 2026, with David Blough as the coordinator. However, elements of the old offense will remain, which should provide a sense of continuity for Daniels.
Terry McLaurin, Washington's top wide receiver, played in only one complete game with Daniels in 2025. The duo's limited time together has raised concerns about the team's chemistry. However, with Daniels healthy, the Commanders believe they can compete with any team in the NFC.
Daniels' competitive drive has been a key factor in his success. He has stated that he doesn't root against his 2024 draft classmates, Drake Maye and Caleb Williams, despite the attention they received last season.
The Commanders are optimistic about Daniels' health and performance in 2026. With a healthy Daniels, Washington could be right back in NFC contention. As Ben Arthur noted, "If Daniels is healthy, Washington is a contender."
Source: Yahoo Sports