One Commanders position group is raising concerns for 2025

The Washington Commanders' defensive line still ranks near the bottom of the league, raising major concerns heading into 2025.

Darius Hayes | May 17, 2025

Nov 14, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Washington Commanders defensive end Dorance Armstrong (92) and defensive end Clelin Ferrell (99) against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images / Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

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Washington Commanders

The Washington Commanders made several additions to their roster this offseason, but concerns remain about one critical area of the team.

The Commanders' defensive line is now viewed as their biggest weakness heading into the 2025 season.

Washington fielded the second-lowest-graded defensive line in the NFL last season, according to Pro Football Focus. Despite signing multiple veterans during free agency, none of the additions project to be high-impact players.

Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley (26) and Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne (94)

Dec 22, 2024; Landover, Maryland, USA; Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball against Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne (94) during the third quarter at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-Imagn Images / Peter Casey-Imagn Images

“Javon Kinlaw has improved a bit as a pass rusher,” PFF wrote, “but has never earned above a 55.0 PFF overall grade in his five NFL seasons.” Veteran Jacob Martin is also expected to contribute, though only in a rotational role.

The Commanders moved on from edge Dante Fowler Jr. last year and have yet to replace that high-end edge production. While veteran edge Dorance Armstrong brings experience, he has consistently performed as a true No. 1 pass rusher. Washington still has time to address the position, with options available in the remaining free agent pool and potential cap casualties as rosters begin to trim down during training camp.

PFF further noted that “Deatrich Wise Jr. and Eddie Goldman have both struggled over the past two seasons,” adding that facing physical offensive lines like Philadelphia’s twice a year will require “some surprise performances from the Commanders’ defensive line.”

Unless one of these players drastically outperforms expectations, Washington could continue to struggle in the trenches in 2025 — a major red flag in a division loaded with talent on the offensive side of the ball.

Stick with CommanderGameday and the Locked On Commanders podcast for more FREE coverage of the Washington Commanders throughout the 2025 offseason.