Commanders are sitting on a breakout star and the league has no idea

If the Washington Commanders want to reach or exceed the incredible heights reached in 2024, it has to be a collective effort. Everyone must contribute, and one team insider believes a breakout candidate is going under the radar.

The Commanders got some outstanding returns from their 2024 NFL Draft class, the first under general manager Adam Peters. Jayden Daniels and Mike Sainristil are franchise cornerstones. Johnny Newton could enter this category next season with more responsibilities on his shoulders. Hype is also growing around second-round tight end Ben Sinnott, who flashed as a rookie despite being used sparingly.

Not much was said about Jordan Magee. The linebacker made an exceptional start over early workouts last spring before suffering a knee injury that required surgery. This dented his progress considerably, and the Commanders rightfully took their time with the former Temple star upon his return to the squad.

Although disappointing, the Commanders are expecting bigger things from Magee this time around. He's got plenty of reps with the starting unit during Washington's offseason program and didn't look out of place whatsoever. Joe Whitt Jr. also declared that he's looking to get the second-year player more involved in three-linebacker sets if confidence in his chances increases.

Commanders insider projects major leap for Jordan Magee in 2025

This was a sentiment echoed by Nicki Jhabvala from The Washington Post during an appearance on 106.7 The Fan. She thought Magee could be in for a massive year based on his early usage and the glowing references from those in positions of power. There is a long way to go, but all signs are pointing up.

"Jordan Magee has the chance to take a huge leap. In part because he played so few defensive snaps last season with injuries and whatnot. And he's getting a lot of reps because Bobby Wagner doesn't need these minicamp reps. And he does look more confident out there. I know DQ [Dan Quinn] and Adam Peters have raved about him. They really expect him to take a major leap this year."

Nicki Jhabvala via 106.7 The Fan

Magee's size, strength, and athleticism look tailor-made for Quinn and Whitt's defensive concepts. He's explosive and instinctive, which is almost a prerequisite for anyone looking to stake a claim in this system. Having experienced figures such as Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu to learn from isn't the worst situation in the world either.

If Magee can raise his influence, the better Washington's defensive chances will improve. He's got a shot, but things can change quickly. The No. 139 overall selection knows that firsthand after his promising momentum came to a disappointing halt last summer through no real fault of his own.

The Commanders didn't do much to strengthen their linebacking corps this offseason. It's starting to look like their faith in Magee is a big reason why.