Commanders’ Christmas Collapse to Cowboys Highlights Familiar Flaws - Winners and Losers from Week 17
The Washington Commanders’ Christmas Day clash with the Dallas Cowboys was supposed to be a chance to salvage some pride. Instead, it turned into a painful reminder of just how far this team has to go. In front of a sparse crowd at Northwest Stadium, Washington dropped its 12th game of the season - and the problems that have haunted them all year long were once again on full display.
For a team that entered the season with playoff aspirations, this kind of collapse isn’t just disappointing - it’s alarming. Head coach Dan Quinn might not be on the hot seat just yet, but let’s be honest: if this downward spiral continues into 2026, there will be some tough conversations coming.
And not just about the head coach. This is an organization that needs answers - fast.
Dallas, for its part, didn’t have much on the line in this one. But they came out early, took control, and never let Washington back into it. The Commanders kept swinging, but it was clear from the opening whistle that they were outmatched, outmanned, and - at times - out of sync.
With one game left in the season, the focus is already shifting to what went wrong and how to fix it. Some players are fighting to stay on the roster.
Some coaches may not make it to the offseason. Defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr., for example, could be on the chopping block.
The energy in the stadium reflected that uncertainty - fans have checked out, and now the franchise has to figure out how to bring them back in.
Before we turn the page to the offseason, let’s break down the key takeaways from this latest setback. Here are three winners and four losers from the Commanders’ frustrating loss to their biggest rival.
Loser No. 1: Quan Martin - Safety
Quan Martin came into this season with expectations of a breakout year. Instead, he’s become a symbol of the Commanders’ defensive struggles.
Let’s call it like it is - Martin has been a liability on the back end. His coverage instincts haven’t developed the way Washington hoped, and his tackling has been inconsistent at best. Week 17 was another tough outing, with lapses in positioning and missed opportunities that opposing offenses have learned to target.
This isn’t just a one-game issue. It’s been a season-long concern.
Martin, a 2023 second-round pick out of Illinois, still has one year left on his rookie deal, and that may buy him a bit more time. But make no mistake - his starting spot is far from secure heading into 2026.
Washington needs more from its secondary, and Martin hasn’t delivered. If the Commanders are serious about turning things around, finding a more reliable option at safety has to be on the offseason checklist.
The talent is there. The flashes are there.
But the consistency? Not yet - and that’s a problem.