Commanders' Defensive Overhaul Earns 'Most Improved' Marks, Boosts Power Ranking

Improved speed on defense drove the bump in outlook.

Overview

Pro Football Focus, as cited by Yahoo Sports, listed Washington's defense among the NFL's most improved units after free agency.
The rebuild added edge rushers Odafe Oweh, K'Lavon Chaisson and Charles Omenihu along with linebacker Leo Chenal, corner Amik Robertson, safety Nick Cross and lineman Tim Settle in a push to get younger and faster.
Sports Illustrated's Conor Orr ranked Washington No. 13 and wrote the team can slide back into contender status this season.
NFL.com's Judy Battista projected a playoff chase and noted that the outlook depends on quarterback Jayden Daniels staying healthy.
The offense still lacks a proven threat beyond receiver Terry McLaurin, and the No. 7 draft pick with remaining cap space gives Washington clear paths to add a playmaker.