When the Commanders drafted Jer’Zhan “Johnny” Newton out of Illinois in 2024, they had been anticipating him to make a direct influence. It hasn’t fairly labored out that manner, however the group nonetheless thinks that influence is coming.
Commanders coach Dan Quinn says that when he thinks of gamers who’re going to take a giant step ahead this season, the primary participant he thinks about is Newton, who’s wholesome and keen to present what he can do.
Advertisement
“First one that comes to mind is defensive tackle Johnny Newton,” Quinn told Kevin Clark on This Is Football. “His first year was injuries, had a foot injury to come in, I think he’s a guy that’s about to absolutely take off. As a defensive tackle, man is he quick. Beating somebody to the spot, his ability as an interior rusher, I think he’ll be somebody you say, ‘I remember talking to Dan in March or April and this guy turned out to be a heavy hitter.'”
Newton was a part-time participant within the Commanders’ defensive position rotation final season, taking part in 38 % of the Commanders’ defensive snaps. He nonetheless managed 5 sacks in his part-time function, and this year Quinn expects Newton to play extra, and contribute extra to the Commanders’ cross rush.