Joe Theismann Shows Optimism for Commanders’ Upcoming Season
Super Bowl champion Joe Theismann, who played his entire career for the then-Washington Redskins, is feeling positive about the Commanders this season, even after a challenging previous year.
Last season, the team ended with a 5-12 record, a stark contrast to their advancement to the NFC Championship in 2024. Theismann, 76, mentioned that injuries played a significant role in their struggles last year.
“We had quite a few injuries at critical times. Our defense really had its vulnerabilities,” Theismann shared in a recent conversation. “Bobby (Wagner) was aging too, leading to some challenges. Seventeen games is a lot, right? The toll it takes on your body… No matter how young you feel, your body eventually reminds you.”
The Commanders’ defense allowed an average of 26.5 points per game last season, ranking 27th in the NFL. However, the team looked to strengthen its defensive line during the NFL Draft, selecting Ohio State linebacker Sonny Stiles with the seventh overall pick.
“I believe our No. 1 pick will be really significant moving forward,” Theismann remarked. “We’ve added some fantastic defensive assets.”
The team invested seriously in bolstering its defense, adding former Los Angeles Chargers pass rusher Odafe Oweh on a four-year, $100 million contract, along with former Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal at three years and $24.75 million, and former Houston Texans defensive tackle Tim Settle for three years at $24 million.
Star wide receiver Terry McLaurin didn’t participate much in the offseason program due to contract issues, but Theismann noted he’ll be actively involved this year.
The Commanders also changed their offensive coordinators, mutually parting ways with Kliff Kingsbury. David Breaux has been promoted to the role, though Theismann highlighted that the offensive strategy will see a shift.
“David Blough is going to handle the game differently than Kliff did—expect more play-action and some variations with under-center plays. Jaden (Daniels) had the chance to practice this approach towards the end of last season, so he’s ahead in that respect,” Theismann explained.
Daniels was limited to just seven games last year due to injuries, but this allowed him to adapt to the new system sooner than expected.
While Theismann is optimistic about the Commanders’ improvements, he acknowledges that their competitors in the NFC East have also grown stronger.
“The entire division is getting better. The Giants have made strides. Their coaching change seems impactful. Jackson Dart will be in his second year, and I believe they haven’t fully utilized their defensive talent yet,” he stated. “The Cowboys have enhanced their defense as well, while the Eagles remain formidable. You’ve got to contend with Jalen (Hurts)—he just steps up and delivers win after win.”
Theismann’s own NFL career spanned 12 seasons entirely with the then-Washington Redskins. He earned the league MVP title in 1983 and made two Pro Bowl appearances, leading his team to victory in Super Bowl XVII against the Miami Dolphins in 1982.
He completed 56.7% of his passes throughout his career, totaling 25,206 yards, 160 touchdowns, and 138 interceptions.
Theismann is also preparing to compete in the American Century Championship set for July 10-12 at Edgewood Golf Course in Lake Tahoe. The event will be aired on NBC and Peacock.
