"It was a comfortable afternoon at the office as the Washington Commanders began their 2025 campaign with a divisional victory over the New York Giants. And the biggest positive to emerge from the contest was painfully obvious. Much was made about the Commanders' defensive line throughout the offseason. Fans were skeptical that the moves made by general manager Adam Peters would bear fruit, especially if they wanted to topple the Philadelphia Eagles. But the early returns suggest this unit can far exceed expectations."
"The Commanders saw something different in the Alabama product this offseason after releasing veteran defensive tackle Jonathan Allen. This gave him the freedom to step out of his shadow, and this was arguably his best performance since earning Pro Bowl honors in 2022. Payne was ably assisted by Javon Kinlaw. The Commanders took a lot of heat for giving the free-agent signing so much money, but his ferocious physicality completely shifted the mindset."
Washington Commanders opened 2025 with a divisional win over the New York Giants, and the defensive line emerged as the primary positive. Offseason roster moves by general manager Adam Peters aimed to upgrade the interior and edge. Early evidence indicates the defensive front may exceed expectations despite concerns and tougher upcoming opponents. The Giants lacked interior strength and missed left tackle Andrew Thomas, but the Commanders generated consistent pressure and disruption. Daron Payne delivered his best performance since 2022, with Javon Kinlaw adding physicality and Dorance Armstrong Jr. producing nine pressures. Deatrich Wise Jr. showed improved production, while Eddie Goldman and Von Miller flashed.
Read at Riggo's Rag
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