Johnny Newton Injury Seals a Commanders Draft Mistake They Can't Undo The Washington Commanders’ 2026 season has already begun with a significant setback as third-year defensive tackle Johnny Newton’s torn pectoral muscle sidelines him for most, if not all, of the season. This injury adds to a growing list of long-term issues for the team, which already includes five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil, cornerback Trey Amos, and center Nick Allegretti. Newton’s absence further complicates the Commanders’ plans, as his potential as a second-round pick in 2024 now seems to be a distant memory. Newton, selected with the 36th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, was hailed as a “best player available” selection by general manager Adam Peters. The Commanders positioned him as a steal with Pro Bowl-level upside, but his career with the team has been marred by recurring injuries. Before his rookie season, Newton underwent surgeries on both feet, which limited his development and forced him into a developmental role. Despite these challenges, he managed to start 11 games in 2024 after Jonathan Allen missed most of the year. However, his opportunities dwindled after the signing of Javon Kinlaw, leading to his benching. The 2025 season saw Newton’s role further diminished. He was used primarily as a rotational player, recording five sacks, including three in a single game against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 17. Yet, his struggles to stop the run highlighted his inconsistency. Even prior to this latest injury, Newton was expected to be moved further down the depth chart. The Commanders’ decision to sign veteran Tim Settle Jr.#washington_commanders #adam_peters #daronte_jones #johnny_newton #tim_settle_jr
Washington Commanders to Release Veteran Cornerback Marshon Lattimore The Washington Commanders have decided to release veteran cornerback Marshon Lattimore before the start of the new league year, ending a two-year tenure that proved to be a costly misstep for the team. The move, confirmed by a league source, marks the conclusion of a failed attempt to strengthen the secondary, which had long been a weakness for the franchise. The decision is expected to free up $18.5 million in salary cap space, a significant financial benefit for a team in the midst of a rebuild. Lattimore’s struggles since joining the Commanders, combined with the team’s overall defensive shortcomings, made the release inevitable. Lattimore was acquired in November 2024 as part of a trade that saw the Commanders give up multiple draft picks, including a 2025 third-, fourth-, and sixth-round selection, along with a fifth-round pick from the New Orleans Saints. The trade occurred when the Commanders were 7-2 and positioned for a deep playoff run, but their secondary remained their weakest unit. Through Week 9 of the 2024 season, Washington’s defense had allowed a league-high 14.2 percent explosive play rate to opponents, a statistic that dropped slightly to 12.1 percent by the season’s end. The Commanders hoped Lattimore, a four-time Pro Bowl selection and 2017 Defensive Rookie of the Year, would provide immediate upgrades to their back end. However, Lattimore’s integration into the team was hindered by a hamstring injury he suffered with the Saints earlier in the season. Despite his reputation as a seasoned player, his performance with the Commanders was inconsistent. His first start against the Saints in Week 15 showed promise, as he was not targeted by his former team, but his struggles quickly became apparent.#washington_commanders #marshon_lattimore #adam_peters #daronte_jones #lakewood_ohio
