3 x factors for the Commanders
By: Jake Rajala
The Washington Commanders were one of the biggest surprises last season. Not only did they make the playoffs, but they stream rolled the number one seed (Detroit Lions) in the playoffs. With that said, I’m going to take a fun, worthy angle by unfolding three x factors for the Commanders this season.
Austin Ekeler
Austin Ekeler is somewhat in the shadow at RB behind Brian Robinson Jr. There is also a lot of attention on Deebo Samuel, who can often play RB! So, let’s not forget about Austin Ekeler, despite him also being 30 years old. He was second-team All-Pro last season. He averaged 31.3 Y/return. Simply put, he is dangerous in space.
Mike Sainristil
Mike Sainristil is somewhat in the shadow of the elite Marshon Lattimore. Nonetheless, let’s not forget Mike Sainristil, and his ability. He had 14 pass deflections last season, which was 10th in the league. He’s the perfect CB2. He won’t have to worry too much about Cedee Lamb, Malik Nabers, and A.J. Brown, as Lattimore should have his hands full with them.
Dorance Armstrong
Dorance is quite the well-rounded defensive lineman. Not only did he have 3.5 stuffs in the playoffs, but he also had 3.5 sacks in the post-season. He also had 46 pressures in the regular season, which is modest from the IDL. The attention on Daron Payne opens up room for the likes of Dorance Armstrong to shine.
Honorable Mention:
Zach Ertz
I know Zach Ertz is a big name and he’s been to the Pro Bowl. However, he has slowly been creeping in the dark, as Terry McLaurin, Deebo Samuel, and even Noah Brown have hogged the spotlight. Ertz is still there to compete and win another Super Bowl trophy. Don’t forget about the TE, even if he’s 34 years old.
Jayden Daniels is one of the best dual-threat QBs in the league. Nonetheless, he will need more unsung heroes to shine, especially if he wants to take down Philly and a healthy Lions squad. With that said, the Commanders are also counting on Jayden Daniels to improve his traits (physically and mentally). Hopefully, it all comes together for Washington in 2025.
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