Here's why the Commanders will bounce back in 2026

If you had only one reason to be optimistic about the Washington Commanders in 2026, what would it be? Most would answer a healthy Jayden Daniels. That’s correct. But there is another reason, and it too involves Daniels.

In Daniels’ magical 2024 rookie season, wide receiver Terry McLaurin caught a career-high 13 touchdown passes and added three more in the postseason. Only Ja’Marr Chase had more in the entire NFL. McLaurin’s previous career high was seven, set in his 2019 rookie season. Of those 16 total touchdowns, 15 came from Daniels’ right arm.

Last season, Daniels missed 10 games, finishing only four from start to finish. And, for the first time in his seven-year NFL career, McLaurin missed significant time with an injury. He previously missed three total games in seven seasons. In 2025, McLaurin missed seven games due to a nagging quad injury.

When you look back at the 2025 season and wonder why the Commanders finished 5-12, consider that Daniels and McLaurin played in only three games together. In only one of those games did Daniels and McLaurin play from start to finish — a Week 1 win over the New York Giants.

That’s remarkable in retrospect. When you look back at why Washington went from 12-5 to 5-12, the lack of Daniels and McLaurin on the field together is a primary reason for that massive step back. Sure, the Commanders had many problems in 2025, but missing their best two players for most of the season will cripple almost any team.

So, while there are many reasons for fans and analysts to be a bit apprehensive about the Commanders in 2026, a healthy Daniels and McLaurin is a reason to believe again. David Blough’s new offense could also bring out the best in both Daniels and McLaurin.

It’s easy to bet against Washington right now. Did the Commanders do enough to fix an awful defense? Can Daniels stay healthy for a full season? Did GM Adam Peters do enough on offense to help Daniels? Those are all valid concerns. And they will not be answered until the Commanders open the 2026 season.

As for McLaurin, he’s quietly having a phenomenal offseason. He’s more motivated than ever to put a miserable 2025 season behind him. Daniels appears to be similarly motivated. That’s good news for Washington.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: Here’s why they will bounce back in 2026