Overview
- The Commanders completed a major defensive rebuild on paper this offseason by spending heavily in free agency, re-signing veterans, and using the No. 7 pick on Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles.
- Washington reportedly spent just over $258 million in free agency to add speed and pass rush, signing edge rushers Odafe Oweh, Charles Omenihu and K’Lavon Chaisson plus interior pieces like Tim Settle and Deatrich Wise.
- The team also replaced defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. with Daronte Jones and added linebacker Leo Chenal to create new schematic options that favor quicker, three‑linebacker looks.
- Veteran defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw publicly praised the new-look line during OTAs on Wednesday, listing teammates by name and saying the group brings real talent and confidence to the locker room.
- Analysts call the personnel moves a substantial upgrade from a 2025 unit that ranked last in total yards allowed, but they stress effectiveness is unproven until OTAs progress into training camp and regular-season play.