Washington Commanders’ Playoff Hopes: Can Last Year’s Surprise Team Repeat in 2025?

By Jason Bolton June 15, 2025 10:41

The Washington Commanders stunned the NFL world in 2024 with a breakout season that saw them finish 12-5, their best record since 1991, and make it all the way to the NFC Championship Game. After years of underperformance and instability, the Commanders emerged as a legitimate contender under the leadership of first-year head coach Dan Quinn and general manager Adam Peters. As the 2025 season approaches, the big question is whether Washington can replicate last year’s success or if they will fall back into mediocrity.

A Remarkable 2024 Campaign

The Commanders’ 2024 season was a dramatic turnaround. After a dismal 4-13 record in 2023, they improved by eight wins, finishing second in the NFC East behind the Philadelphia Eagles. Their 12-5 record included a 7-2 home mark and a solid 5-3 performance on the road. Washington’s offense ranked fifth in the league, scoring 485 points (28.5 per game), tied for the second-most in franchise history. Wide receiver Terry McLaurin set a franchise record with 13 touchdown catches, while rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels earned NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year honors by setting the rookie record for rushing yards by a QB.

Daniels’ dual-threat ability was a key factor in the Commanders’ success. His memorable “Hail Maryland” game-winning Hail Mary pass to Noah Brown against the Chicago Bears became an instant classic. The team’s defense also improved under coordinator Joe Whitt Jr., with linebackers Frankie Luvu and Bobby Wagner earning second-team All-Pro honors. Overall, Washington’s point differential was +94, reflecting a team that not only won but dominated many games.

Can Washington Repeat?

Despite the optimism, replicating such a remarkable season is never easy. The Commanders face several challenges heading into 2025. They lost in the NFC Championship Game to the eventual Super Bowl champion Eagles by a lopsided 55-23 score, exposing some weaknesses, particularly on defense against elite offenses.

However, head coach Dan Quinn remains confident. “We know what it takes to win in this league,” Quinn said recently. “Last year was a step forward, but we’re not satisfied. We want to build on that and get even better.” General manager Adam Peters echoed this sentiment, emphasizing continuity and growth. “We have a young, hungry team with a lot of talent. The goal is to keep improving and compete for a championship.”

Key Factors for 2025 Success

Washington’s playoff hopes hinge on several factors:

Quarterback Play: Jayden Daniels’ development will be crucial. After an impressive rookie year, Daniels must continue to refine his passing accuracy and decision-making to elevate the offense further.
Supporting Cast: The health and production of Terry McLaurin and other skill players like Noah Brown will be vital. The offensive line must also protect Daniels better to sustain drives.
Defensive Consistency: While the defense improved, it showed vulnerabilities against top-tier offenses. The Commanders need to bolster their pass rush and secondary to compete in the tough NFC East.
Schedule and Division: Washington’s 2024 record included a 4-2 mark within the division. Maintaining dominance in the NFC East, which remains competitive, will be key to securing a playoff spot.

Outlook

The Commanders enter 2025 with momentum and a blueprint for success. Their 12-5 record and playoff victories ended long droughts, and the franchise’s culture appears to be shifting positively. While challenges remain, the combination of a dynamic young quarterback, a potent offense, and an improving defense makes Washington a team to watch.

As analyst Seth Walder noted, “The Commanders surprised many last year, but they have the pieces to be more than a one-hit wonder. If they stay healthy and continue developing, they could be a serious contender in 2025.”

In short, Washington’s playoff hopes are very much alive. The question is not if they can surprise again, but how far they can go this time around. With the right adjustments and continued growth, the Commanders could cement themselves as one of the NFL’s rising powers.