A film session breaking down Commanders DT Johnny Newton
Washington Commanders defensive tackle Johnny Newton is entering a critical offseason of his rookie contract. Newton had a relatively quiet second season before his stat-stuffing performance against the Dallas Cowboys, when he compiled three sacks, five quarterback hits, two TFLs, and nine tackles. Not to suggest he didn’t have his “moments,” but the former 2024 second-round pick had not truly put his stamp on the games he played in yet. Newton saw 38 percent of defensive snaps in 2025, which is a 13 percent decrease from his rookie season. Granted, in 2024, former Commanders’ defensive tackle Jonathan Allen’s injury impacted Newton’s increased usage.
Newton’s vision of the football stands out, but he has an excellent motor that allows him to stay in most plays. While he flashes with his hand usage, it is inconsistent, and currently lacks secondary or tertiary moves that help win engagements. Newton is quick as well and shows flashes of it occasionally, but he can improve his lower-body and core strength.
In this Trap or Dive film session, I studied Johnny Newton’s last few games of the season. I detailed which alignment he had most success with, what he wins with as a pass rusher and run defender, and the inconsistencies that are hindering his impact heading into his third season.
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Category: General Sports
