It’s Starting to Feel a Lot Like Football

With the conclusion of voluntary OTAs, there isn't much in the way of drama for the Washington Commanders.

Yes, there are high-quality veterans—standouts like WR1 Terry McLaurin, with Laremy Tunsil and Deebo Samuel not far behind—who would love a big-money contract. But all in good time. You’d expect McLaurin, the epitome of a ‘Commander,’ to be first in line for improved terms and stud receiver dollars.

Here at UKHTTC, we’re giving our opinion on two players we believe will spark the 2025 season in burgundy & gold, and two who might warrant pumping the brakes a little.

Joining UKHTTC founder Christian Burt are contributors Scott Hartley, the Commanders International Fan of the Year, and Aled, aka the Wales Commanders Aled.

🔥 First up, Scott:

Two Commanders Who Will Ball Out in 2025

Quan Martin (S) Martin has been a stable presence in the backfield and is a lock for the strong safety position this season. He’s shown versatility and the ability to make plays on the ball. I expect him to have a massive year.

Daron Payne (DT) With no guaranteed money left on his contract after this season, Daron is motivated to secure his future. We all remember his 2022 stat line: 11.5 sacks and 64 tackles.

While 2023 saw a dip (4 sacks, 42 tackles), he was playing a more contain-focused role, plugging the middle of the D-line. With new edge support and an interior pass rush void, Payne could thrive again. Coaches have praised his OTA performance—I expect a bounce back to near 2022 form.

Pump the Brakes

Andrew Wylie (RT/RG) Wylie enters this season after two years at right tackle. With the arrival of Josh Conerly Jr. and Laremy Tunsil, he faces a challenge and may have to slide inside to cover for Sam Cosmi during recovery. Wylie’s been an average starter, and unless he shines, his future may be limited to a backup role.

Austin Ekeler (RB) At times last season, Ekeler was lightning in a bottle—but health issues down the stretch and the depth in the RB room raise concerns. A down year might be on the horizon.

⚡ Next up, Aled:

Ballin’ Out in 2025

Deebo Samuel (WR) Deebo has a great shot to bounce back in Washington. If he stays healthy and builds chemistry with Jayden Daniels, he could thrive in Kliff Kingsbury’s YAC-focused offense.

Laremy Tunsil (LT) Tunsil is a massive upgrade. With him securing Daniels’ blindside, our offense is primed to take a step forward. His leadership and consistency are exactly what this line needs.

Not So Great

Daron Payne (DT) I am a bit concerned about Payne. His production has dipped, and with more pressure on the D-line, he’ll need to bounce back to anchor the defense.

Luke McCaffrey (WR) Could struggle to find consistent snaps. With Deebo, Terry, Noah Brown, and others ahead of him, training camp will be critical if he wants to carve out a role.

🕵️ Bonus “Watch Out For” Guy

Jaylin Lane (WR/KR)Lane has 4.34 speed and versatility that could make him a sneaky breakout star—whether as WR3 or a special teams weapon. He’s been impressive in OTAs and might become a much-needed spark plug.

🧠 Final Thoughts from Christian:

Studs in 2025

Daron Payne (DT) If Payne wants a final big payday in Washington, 2025 is the time to deliver. His absence was felt in the Eagles championship game last year, and he now has the chance to emerge from Jon Allen’s shadow. As the last man standing from the once-feared quartet of Young, Sweat, Allen, and Payne—he’ll be counted on to lead. I expect a big year.

Jayden Daniels (QB) Daniels has supreme talent and very little ego. I don’t see a sophomore slump coming. He has the work ethic, mindset, and athleticism to grow consistently. Expect more polished intermediate accuracy, especially to the likes of Deebo Samuel in YAC-heavy plays.

Pause Before Praise

Marshon Lattimore (CB) Veterans can skip OTAs, no issue there. But while Tunsil doesn’t need them, Lattimore might’ve benefited from reps with the new defense. His durability over 17 games is a concern, and the NFC East (Lamb, Nabers, Brown) isn’t forgiving for corners trying to prove they’re not washed.

Jacory Croskey-Merritt (RB)A true “pump the brakes” pick. The RB room is solid if unspectacular. Expecting a 7th-round rookie to leapfrog Robinson, Ekeler, or even Jeremy McNichols might be premature. He’s got talent—but let’s temper expectations.