Jer'Zhan Newton Shows Promise but Commanders Need More from Young Talent in Lost Season
One year ago, the Washington Commanders appeared to have the type of draft class that could change the course of a franchise for years to come. Of course, quarterback Jayden Daniels led the way, but other draft picks, such as Mike Sainristil and Brandon Coleman, had featured roles.
Now, heading into Week 13 of the 2025 season, the Commanders are 3-8 and have lost six straight games. Daniels will likely miss his sixth game of the season on Sunday. Sainristil has started every game, but looks lost compared to last season. Coleman switched positions and was benched.
Sainristil wasn't Washington's only 2024 second-round pick. Defensive tackle Jer'Zhan Newton and tight end Ben Sinnott were also chosen in the second round. As a rookie, Newton was behind veteran starters Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne, while Sinnott was behind Zach Ertz and John Bates.
The Commanders released Allen in the offseason, which was a positive for Newton. However, Washington signed Javon Kinlaw in free agency, and Payne and Kinlaw have been Washington's starters at defensive tackle.
Newton has appeared in all 11 games for the Commanders, but has not started one game. Some fans were shocked that in Week 11, with Payne missing the game due to a suspension, veteran Eddie Goldman started instead of Newton. However, it was more about the matchup that week against the Dolphins.
In 11 games, Newton has played 34% of Washington's defensive snaps. He has 23 tackles, including two for loss, two sacks and four quarterback hits. Head coach Dan Quinn has been impressed with the former Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year.
"I would say one of the strengths of the defense is the DTs," Quinn said on Monday. "And Johnny's right in the middle of that. I like that he's been disruptive as a pass rusher, getting upfield to go. And so, that to me was a big piece of it. Sometimes the game plan works out that way, you're playing more of a five down front, or how do you want to go about it? But there was nothing regarding game planning, more or less. But I do love the quickness that he's playing with and the disruption, and I think he's a guy that can cause havoc. And so, that's what I want to see this week and every other over the rest of the season of him doing those things together."
What do we make of what Quinn said? Newton has flashed this season. But you expect more out of a second-round pick. The Commanders were elated when Newton fell to them at No. 36 overall. One reason he fell was a foot injury that required surgery. Before he played his first NFL game last fall, Newton had surgery on each of his feet.
Over Washington's final six games, coaches should prioritize development and winning. You need to play your best players, but with so many expiring contracts, it's also essential to find out what you have in some of the younger players. Newton included.
The Commanders need more encouraging signs from players such as Newton, Sainristil and Sinnott. In a lost season, the development of those players is critical to Washington's future.
BREAKING: NFL Superstar Bo Nix Makes Powerful Stand Against Racism – His Bold Statement Ignites a Social Media Firestorm and Sparks Nationwide Conversation
New York, NY – In a powerful and unflinching moment, NFL quarterback Bo Nix has spoken out against racism, delivering a statement that has since sent shockwaves through the sports world and sparked an explosive reaction on social media. The Oregon Ducks superstar, known for his leadership on and off the field, made headlines for his strong words condemning racial inequality and injustice.
The statement, shared on Nix’s social media platforms, called for unity and change in a time when racial tensions continue to divide communities across the country. “Racism has no place in this world, especially not in the sport I love. We must stand together to create change, and it starts with each of us doing our part to fight for justice and equality,” Nix wrote in a post that quickly went viral.
The post resonated deeply with fans and athletes alike, generating millions of views and hundreds of thousands of comments, both in support of his message and from those calling for action. Nix’s words came at a time when conversations about racism in sports and society have intensified, making his statement even more poignant and timely.
“I’ve been fortunate to be in spaces where I’ve been accepted for who I am, but I know that’s not the reality for everyone. It’s time for us to listen, to act, and to make sure everyone, no matter the color of their skin, is treated with the respect and dignity they deserve,” Nix continued in his post.
The 22-year-old quarterback’s bold stance has earned him widespread praise, with many noting that athletes like Nix have a unique opportunity to use their platforms to bring about positive change. “Bo’s bravery to speak out on such an important issue is something we all need to recognize,” said
However, Nix’s statement hasn’t been without controversy. Some critics have voiced their disagreement, with a minority questioning the involvement of athletes in political and social matters. But Nix, ever the leader, has made it clear that he won’t back down. “This is about human rights, not politics,” he said firmly. “If we stand silent in the face of injustice, we’re just as complicit. I’m not afraid to speak out, and I hope others will join me.”
The conversation surrounding Nix’s comments has not only ignited passionate debates but also sparked a wave of solidarity, with other athletes, fans, and organizations expressing their support. Social media platforms were flooded with hashtags like
As Nix continues to rise as one of the most promising young quarterbacks in the NFL, his words and actions are proving that his influence extends far beyond the football field. The outpouring of support for his stand against racism is proof that athletes, especially those with global reach, can lead the way in the fight for justice.
“My hope is that we can all work together to create a world where racism is no longer a part of our society,” Nix concluded in his post. “It’s time for change. It’s time to stand up.”
