Commanders Land at 20 in Way-Too-Early 2026 Power Rankings

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The Washington Commanders are ranked 20th in ESPN's way-too-early 2026 NFL power rankings, a lower position than expected after their NFC Championship Game appearance in 2024. The team is looking to bounce back from a 5-12 season in 2025, which was marked by injuries to key players like quarterback Jayden Daniels. With the fifth-most cap space but only seven roster spots filled, the Commanders have work to do this offseason to add explosiveness on offense and rebuild their defense.

Why it matters

The Commanders' steep drop-off from 2024 to 2025 has raised questions about the team's ability to return to contention. Their low ranking in these early 2026 power rankings suggests the league views them as a team in transition that needs to make significant improvements this offseason to get back on track.

The details

After going from the NFC Championship Game in 2024 to a 5-12 record in 2025, the Commanders have already made changes, firing both coordinators and four other defensive coaches. The team has the fifth-most cap space for 2026 but only seven roster spots filled, so they'll need to be strategic in free agency and the draft to add talent, particularly at tight end, receiver, and on defense.

• The 2025 NFL season ended on Sunday, February 9, 2026.
• ESPN recently released its way-too-early 2026 power rankings.

What’s next

The Commanders' ranking will likely change as they make player personnel moves this offseason through free agency and the draft.