Commanders hope to capitalize on momentum

In this story:
The Washington Commanders are coming into the season with a lot of energy after making it all the way to the NFC Championship in January.
While the Commanders are trying to look forward, it's hard to not take last season into account as they trek into the 2025 campaign.
Pro Football Network writer Brandon Austin thinks the Commanders should try and draw upon last year's experiences as they move along into training camp.
READ MORE: Commanders undrafted rookie could surprise, make 53-man roster

Commanders hoping to ride the wave
"Washington went all-in this offseason, making aggressive trades for [Deebo] Samuel and left tackle Laremy Tunsil. The goal is simple: maximize the window while Daniels is on his rookie contract. The Commanders fielded an efficient offense last year, and with better protection and more weapons, they’re built to take another leap in 2025," Austin wrote.
"While the offense reloaded, the defense remained mostly intact, aside from some low-cost signings and the addition of second-round cornerback Trey Amos. The biggest move came in free agency, though Javon Kinlaw’s contract raised eyebrows. Still, with Quinn’s defensive pedigree, there’s a belief this group can round into form.
"The talent is there, but the challenge now is managing higher expectations. Deebo and Tunsil still need to mesh into the offense, and Terry McLaurin’s absence during early team activities looms as a subplot. But the Commanders aren’t sneaking up on anyone after their rapid rise. They’re chasing a Super Bowl and not shying away from it."
The Commanders have many reasons to be successful in the upcoming season and they could very well be better than they were last year.
If the Commanders take that step in the right direction, they will be one of the most feared teams in the league.
The Commanders are set to play the New England Patriots in their preseason opener on Aug. 8.
READ MORE: Why one Commanders RB could win your fantasy league
Stick with CommanderGameday and the Locked On Commanders podcast for more FREE coverage of the Washington Commanders throughout the 2025 offseason.
More Washington Commanders News
• Washington Commanders’ Jayden Daniels gives perfect response to Terry McLaurin drama
• Commanders are suddenly a team everyone wants to join

Jeremy Brener is an editor, writer and social media manager for several On SI sites. His work has also been featured in 247 Sports and SB Nation as a writer and podcaster. Brener grew up in Houston, going to Astros, Rockets and Texans games as a kid and resides in Central Florida. He graduated from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor's degree in Broadcast Journalism minoring in Sport Business Management. Brener can be followed on Twitter @JeremyBrener.
Follow @JeremyBrener