The Washington Commanders drafted defensive tackle Jer’Zhan Newton in the second round of the 2024 NFL draft. A standout Big Ten defender out of Illinois, Newton wasn’t necessarily expected to make a huge impact this season. No one told Newton that, though, as he led all interior defensive linemen in Week 8 for pressures.
Jer’Zhan Newton among IDL in Week 8:
♦️ 7 pressures (1st)
♦️ 31.3% win rate (1st)
♦️ 43.8% pressure rate (1st) pic.twitter.com/Zh1OaxvovM— PFF WAS Commanders (@PFF_Washington) October 29, 2024
In seven games this season, Newton has recorded 14 tackles (nine solo), one fumble recovery and 2.5 stuffs. Against the Chicago Bears on Sunday, Newton added three tackles, one stuff and a fumble recovery. By contrast, Jonathan Allen has recorded 15 tackles (13 solo) and two sacks. Allen was placed on injured reserve after Week 6 when he suffered a pectoral injury.
Newton had to earn that starting spot, though. And with that opportunity, Newton is showing the league that there’s more to him than anyone initially thought. He’s made the leap to the NFL game and has transitioned with ease.
The Commanders’ defense isn’t often talked about this season because Jayden Daniels and the offense have been so dynamic, but don’t count out the defense. They are quietly doing their part and getting better every week.