The Washington Commanders are heading into 2026 with a mix of promise, pressure, and plenty of questions. After a rollercoaster first two seasons with Jayden Daniels under center and Dan Quinn at the helm, the team is searching for consistency-and maybe something more.
Let’s rewind for a second. Daniels’ rookie campaign was electric.
He didn’t just meet expectations-he blew right past them, leading Washington all the way to the NFC Championship Game. It was the kind of breakout year that had fans dreaming big and analysts circling the Commanders as a team on the rise.
But Year 2? That was a different story.
Injuries piled up, the offense sputtered, and Washington missed the playoffs entirely. It was a humbling step back for a franchise that had tasted the postseason spotlight and wanted more.
Now, as we look ahead to 2026, the big question is: can the Commanders bounce back and make a legitimate run?
ESPN’s Mike Tannenbaum is already planting his flag. His Super Bowl LXI prediction?
Commanders over Bills. And not just a win-a 45-42 shootout in Los Angeles, with Daniels outdueling Josh Allen on the biggest stage.
Bold? Absolutely. But it’s not completely out of left field.
The key, of course, is Daniels’ health. When he’s on the field, he’s dynamic-able to stretch defenses with his legs and make big-time throws from the pocket.
But Year 2 raised concerns. After taking too many hits and missing time, it’s fair to ask: will he adjust his playing style to preserve his body over a full season?
And if he does, can he still be the same explosive playmaker?
Then there’s the change at offensive coordinator. Kliff Kingsbury is out, and David Blough-yes, that David Blough-steps in to run the show.
It’s an intriguing move. Blough doesn’t come in with a long résumé as a play-caller, but he’s known around the league as a sharp football mind with a player-first approach.
The question is whether he can elevate this offense and keep Daniels in rhythm over 17 games.
There’s no doubt the Commanders have talent. The defense, under Quinn’s guidance, has shown flashes of dominance.
The offensive line, when healthy, can hold its own. And there are weapons on the outside who can make plays after the catch.
But putting it all together-staying healthy, staying consistent, and navigating a brutal NFC slate-is easier said than done.
Is a better version of the 2025 Commanders on the horizon? That feels likely.
But a Super Bowl run? That’s a big leap, even for a team with a quarterback as gifted as Daniels.
Still, this is the NFL. Every February, 32 teams believe they’ve got a shot.
Washington has already shown it can be dangerous when things click. If Daniels stays upright and Blough proves to be the right fit, who knows?
Maybe Tannenbaum’s bold prediction won’t look so crazy after all.