A year that started with plenty of optimism around quarterback Jayden Daniels ultimately turned into a frustrating 2025 season for the Washington Commanders.
The offense struggled to find consistent rhythm for much of the year, and the team never quite found the momentum it hoped to build around its young quarterback.
Daniels, the centerpiece of Washington’s rebuild, saw that momentum stall when injuries disrupted his season late in the year.
His absence forced the Commanders to rethink parts of their short-term plans while also highlighting areas where the roster still needed help.
Now, the conversation around the team may be starting to shift.
On Thursday, it was reported that the Commanders are signing former Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Rachaad White to a one-year contract, according to his agent, Sunny Shah.
The move gives Washington an experienced, versatile running back and also brings a familiar connection back into Daniels’ orbit.
Before their paths crossed again in the NFL, White and Daniels formed a dynamic partnership at Arizona State.
During the 2021 season, Daniels led the Sun Devils’ offense while White emerged as one of the most versatile backs in the Pac-12.
White rushed for 1,006 yards and 15 touchdowns, averaging 5.5 yards per carry, and added 43 receptions for 456 yards, showcasing the receiving ability that would later translate well to the NFL.
The combination of Daniels’ mobility and White’s all-around skill set gave Arizona State a balanced offensive attack that kept defenses guessing.
Their chemistry became a defining element of the Sun Devils’ offense, and that familiarity could now benefit Washington as Daniels continues his development at the professional level.
For the Commanders, the signing addresses a key need.
Washington’s offense struggled to establish consistency in the running game during the 2025 season, placing additional pressure on Daniels before injuries derailed his campaign.
Daniels suffered a dislocated left elbow midway through the year, along with earlier knee and hamstring issues, ultimately missing 10 games during the season.
Without a reliable backfield presence capable of contributing in multiple phases, the offense often became predictable.
White’s receiving ability makes him an ideal outlet for a quarterback returning from injury.
Daniels will likely rely on quick throws and check-downs early in the season as he regains full confidence, and White’s history as a high-volume receiving back fits that approach.
By bringing White into the fold, the Commanders are not only adding depth and playmaking ability to the backfield but also reuniting Daniels with a player who already understands how he operates in an offense.