Commanders’ 2026 Offensive Line Battles Low Rankings

New Coach, New Scheme

Darnell Stapleton takes the helm as offensive line coach, replacing Bobby Johnson and shifting the unit to a zone‑based approach. Stapleton, previously an assistant under Johnson, promises a more modern mindset for the 2026 campaign. The change arrives alongside a roster that largely stays intact, giving the new system a solid foundation.

Personnel Strengths on the Line

The line benefits from a mix of high‑profile signings and returning starters. Left tackle Laremy Tunsil inked a two‑year deal, cementing his status as the NFL’s highest‑paid offensive lineman for the third straight season. Josh Conerly Jr. enters his second year after a promising second‑half showing as a rookie and has added off‑season work with Tunsil to reshape his body.

Returning veterans include Sam Cosmi, a borderline Pro Bowler, and Chris Paul, who will compete with Brandon Coleman for the left‑guard spot. Coleman’s versatility has been valuable, allowing him to fill tackle duties when needed, while Paul’s re‑signing signals a modest one‑year commitment after a season in which he swapped spots mid‑year.

Key Question Marks

Center is the most notable vacancy after Tyler Biadasz was released, creating a battle between Nick Allegretti and Andrew Wylie. Allegretti, now in his third season with Washington, will likely lock down the starting role, but expectations are high after a disappointing 2025 showing by Biadasz. Wylie, experienced at both tackle and guard, adds depth and flexibility.

Overall depth and consistency remain concerns, as the unit posted wide disparities between run and pass protection despite a fifth‑best yards per carry average of 4.73. The split between pass‑pro and run‑blocking grades, especially at left guard, could affect the offense’s balance in 2026.

Where the Line Stands in the Rankings

Multiple outlets place Washington’s offensive line near the middle of the pack, with Fantasy Points analyst Scott DiBenedetto ranking the unit 23rd for the upcoming season. The franchise was 11th a year ago, but injuries to Jayden Daniels amplified a broader regression across the line. The current projection reflects a unit that hasn’t yet reclaimed its 2024 promise.

Analysts point to a few factors driving the dip: inconsistent interior play, the transition to a new scheme, and the loss of a reliable center. If Allegretti can replicate the form that earned him a starting spot in previous years, the line may climb higher. However, the overall ranking suggests a battle for relevance in a crowded NFL offensive‑line landscape.

The 2026 season will serve as a quick reset for the offensive line. With a new coaching philosophy, a mix of established talent and question marks, and a ranking that sits well below expectations, the unit’s performance could shape the entire Commanders offense. Fans and coaches alike will watch closely to see if this group can turn the low‑ranking narrative into a playoff push.