NFL insiders identify biggest positional need for Commanders

The Washington Commanders are entering their bye week in Week 12 with a 3-8 record.

With a record like that, it's clear the team has plenty of holes around the roster. You could make an argument that injuries have been the biggest problem, but even if the team stayed healthy, underperformance and lack of depth have been key factors.

ESPN's NFL reporters recently identified each team's biggest positional weakness. For the Commanders, there were several options to choose from, but two positions stood out the most: linebacker and edge rusher.

"Bobby Wagner will be 36 next season, and there isn't a lot of depth at this position on the roster. Von Miller (who will be 38 next season), Jacob Martin, and the injured Deatrich Wise Jr. will be free agents in 2026," ESPN's Aaron Schatz explained.

As Schatz mentioned, Bobby Wagner isn't getting any younger. The veteran looks like he's lost a step and definitely shouldn't be playing as big a role as he is for the Commanders in 2025. Fellow starting linebacker Frankie Luvu has also disappointed in 2025 after having a solid 2024 campaign.

Moving to the edges, Schatz also mentioned Von Miller's advanced age. Like Wagner, Miller probably shouldn't have such a large role on a defense at this point in his career. Behind Miller, the team will get Dorance Armstrong back next year, which will help, but Jacob Martin and Deatrich Wise Jr. will be free agents.

To show how bad the Commanders' pass rush has been this year, Armstrong hasn't played in over a month, and he still leads the team with 5.5 sacks.

Interestingly, the ESPN staff didn't mention the wide receiver position. Injuries and inconsistency have exposed the Commanders' lack of depth, and Deebo Samuel has been the only consistent member of the unit. That's concerning, considering Samuel is slated to be a free agent after the season.

There's no shortage of problems the Commanders need to address this offseason. The hope for now is that the team can end the season on a positive note, get healthier, and move into the offseason with a clear list of improvements to make.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: NFL insiders predict top offseason need