PFF report critiques Washington Commanders' defensive performance over two decades
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 3, 2026, 7:13 PM
Last updated Jun 3, 2026
A recent analysis by Pro Football Focus highlights the Washington Commanders' defensive struggles over the last 20 years. Despite a trip to the NFC Championship Game in the 2024 NFL season, the defense has often been cited as a weak point, contributing to a disappointing 5-12 record last season. The Commanders drafted linebacker Sonny Styles seventh overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, seeking to address persistent defensive issues. Historically, players like Ryan Kerrigan and DeAngelo Hall showcased talent, but inconsistent team performance has plagued the unit's overall effectiveness. Washington has won several NFC East titles yet lacked postseason success aside from the 2024 season.
- •Commanders had a 5-12 record last season.
- •Drafted linebacker Sonny Styles with the seventh overall pick in 2026.
- •Historically strong players like Ryan Kerrigan and DeAngelo Hall were often underutilized.
- •Defense has been a recurring weakness despite playoff appearances.
- •Team won NFC East in 2020 with a 7-9 record.
- 7:13 PMYahoo Sports — “A Below Average Defense”: PFF Writer Believes That the Washington Commanders Defense Has Not Lived Up To Standards Over the Last 20 NFL Seasons
"Over the last 20 years, the Washington Commanders have had a lot of leaky holes on the defensive side of the football. Washington made it to the NFC Championship Game during the 2024 NFL season, but the offense led the way for them. The Commanders went 5-12 last season, and the defense was once again […] The post “A Below Average Defense”: PFF Writer Believes That the Washington Commanders Defense Has Not Lived Up To Standards Over the Last 20 NFL Seasons appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.
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