Daronte Jones takes over as defensive coordinator with a Brian Flores–style blueprint in mind, emphasized by aggressive blitzing and multiple deep-zone looks. Jones’ Vikings background under Flores and the 48% blitz rate in 2025 signal a defense that will rely on rapid pressure and versatile linebackers to generate turnovers.
The 2025 campaign exposed vulnerabilities on the back end and at linebacker, with Pro Football Focus ranking Washington’s defense 27th overall. Veteran linebacker Bobby Wagner led the team with 162 tackles, but at 35 years old and as a pending free agent in 2026, Washington may pursue younger, high-floor options to stabilize the front seven.
One name that has generated considerable interest is Devin Lloyd, the Jaguars’ former first-round pick, who Bleacher Report highlights as a potential fit for Washington. Lloyd posted 3.5 sacks, 436 tackles, and 9 interceptions over four seasons, including an 81-tackle, 1.5-sack 2025 season despite a calf injury, and a standout 56.4 passer rating allowed in coverage.
Contract projections place Lloyd around the $51 million mark over three years per Bleacher Report, while Spotrac estimates roughly $20 million per year, totaling about $60 million. Washington currently sits with roughly $63.4 million in cap space for 2026, giving them flexibility to pursue a high-upside starter at linebacker without sacrificing other roster needs.
Lloyd’s coverage instincts, playmaking nose, and experience in a blitz-heavy scheme align well with Jones’ defensive priorities, offering the Commanders a stable, long-term anchor on the second level. If Washington can pair Lloyd with a revamped front and continued athleticism in the secondary, the defense could take a meaningful step toward the multi-faceted, turnover-generating unit Jones envisions.
Overall, Washington remains an appealing, up-and-coming destination that could be just a few pieces away from contending with the top teams. The Commanders’ offseason focus on defense—crafting a scheme around Jones and targeting a high-floor linebacker—could determine whether they swiftly pivot from a disappointing 2025 to a balanced, competitive 2026.
