Potential breakout candidates for each Eagles division rival

The Commanders finished in the NFC East’s cellar this past season. They may do so again this season.

Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera has a hint of midnight green in his blood having served as the Eagles’ linebackers coach from 1999 until 2003. Sadly, he’s on the wrong sideline now, so even though he’s an easy guy to like, our allegiances won’t allow us to do so.

The Commanders have some ballers, but if we’re talking about divisional superiority, at this point, it’s hard to imagine they’ll challenge for the crown.

Keep an eye out for some breakout candidates anyway.

TE Cole Turner

With Terry McLaurin, Jahan Dotson, and Curtis Samuel giving opposing defenses fits in the passing game, there should be plenty of room for Cole Turner to operate underneath. This could be a big year for the tight end.

All the Commanders have to do now is figure out who will be throwing him the ball.

QB Sam Howell

Sam Howell walks into the spring and summer as Washington’s QB1, but Jacoby Brissett probably has ideas of his own. Jake Fromm is also in the mix.

We’re placing our money on Howell. After winning his only start last season, Washington’s 26-6 beatdown of the hated Dallas Cowboys in the finale, his approval rating is soaring, but a few losses can change that.

DT Phidarian Mathis

Phidarian Mathis was a Second-Team All-SEC nod in 2021. He tore his left knee’s meniscus during last year’s regular-season opener and was placed on injured reserve. If healed, he could be a problem all season.

FS Percy Butler

The Commanders are solid at safety with Kamren Curl and Darrick Forrest as the starters, but Percy Butler, in an expanded role, could give Washington a nice trio.