The Washington Commanders are generating some buzz after a strong NFL draft, but they still have work to do to climb the league's power rankings. Coming off a tough 5-12 season, the team entered a critical offseason in 2026 needing a jolt of youth, talent, and maybe a little luck. After an NFC Championship Game appearance the year prior, expectations were sky-high for Adam Peters' "recalibration" of the roster. But a Terry McLaurin hold-in and injuries to key starters turned the season sour. Now, with the draft in the rearview mirror, it's time to see where Washington stands.

The Commanders wasted no time reshaping their defense in free agency, making massive changes and firing defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. in favor of Daronte Jones. That defensive focus carried into the draft, where they used their first pick on Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles. On offense, the changes were just as significant. Reports of friction with former offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury's personnel use and play-calling—amplified by injuries to stars like Jayden Daniels and Terry McLaurin—led to a shakeup. David Blough has taken over and is expected to overhaul the offense, helping mold Daniels into a more complete NFL quarterback. Free agency brought reinforcements too, including tight end Chig Okonkwo and running back Rachaad White. In the draft, Washington used its third-round pick on wide receiver Antonio Williams.

The power rankings reflect a mixed outlook. Some analysts rank the Commanders as high as No. 15, praising their free agency and draft classes. Others have them as low as No. 26, but with expectations that they'll bounce back from last year's disappointment. The betting markets are cautiously optimistic: the win total over/under is set at 7.5, with the over at -135 and the under at +115. For a team that went 5-12, that suggests a potential turnaround is on the horizon. Whether the new pieces click or not, Washington has made it clear they're not settling for mediocrity.