Washington Commanders linebacker Frankie Luvu is positioned for a breakout season in 2025, building on a standout 2024 campaign. Analysts, including NFL.com’s Kevin Patra, believe Luvu could earn his first Pro Bowl nod this year as he continues to be a key defensive force for the team.
Frankie Luvu’s Rising Impact Amid Team Challenges
Kevin Patra recently highlighted that Luvu’s career has often flown under the radar, partly due to playing on underperforming teams like the Jets and Panthers. Patra noted,
“Initially, I’d dismissed Luvu, assuming he’d already made a Pro Bowl at some point. I was wrong. Spending your years with the struggling Jets and Panthers — never playing on a team with a winning record — will keep you off of most people’s radars,”
emphasizing the linebacker’s perseverance despite past setbacks.
Luvu’s relentless energy and skill set have made him an invaluable asset for the Commanders. Beyond the occasional penalty moment, such as jumping offsides during the NFC Championship Game’s “tush push,” Luvu’s aggressive presence disrupts opposing offenses consistently. His playstyle involves generating sacks, tackles, and pressures, proving a constant irritant to offensive linemen and ball-carriers alike.
Patra further described Luvu’s unique appeal, stating,
“He’s the type of player who, when he’s on your squad, you love to death. If he’s an opponent, you loathe him. From the standpoint of a neutral onlooker, he’s a joy to watch. I’d also love to see him play dodgeball in the Pro Bowl Games.”
Projecting Luvu’s Key Role for the 2025 Defense
Last season marked a significant breakthrough for the 28-year-old linebacker under the leadership of General Manager Adam Peters and Head Coach Dan Quinn. Luvu’s contributions helped Washington reach the NFC Championship, as he tallied 99 tackles, eight sacks, and an interception in the 2024 campaign.
Looking ahead to 2025, Luvu is expected to once again be a cornerstone of the Commanders’ defense. His ability to maintain and even improve upon his production could transform the perception of the defense, which has not traditionally been viewed as the team’s primary strength.
If Luvu successfully builds on his momentum, the Commanders‘ defensive unit might become a more dominant force in the league. This potential breakout season could elevate both Luvu’s career and the overall fortunes of the Washington defense moving forward.