3 winners (and 4 losers) from Commanders' ugly preseason loss to the Bengals

Winner No. 1

Chris Rodriguez Jr. - Commanders RB

With Brian Robinson Jr. on the trade block as his time with the Washington Commanders comes to a sad end, other running backs got the chance to shine.

All the hype has centered on rookie sensation Jacory Croskey-Merritt. However, there is another roster hopeful who could arguably become the biggest beneficiary of all.

Chris Rodriguez Jr. has a huge opportunity awaiting him. The former sixth-round pick got the chance to start in this one, and he took full advantage. His first run went for an explosive 40-yard gain right out of the gate, which is exactly what Kliff Kingsbury wants to see as part of his high-octane offense.

Rodriguez made a big statement as rumors ran rampant about Robinson's next destination. The Kentucky product finished with 62 rushing yards on six carries to lead the team. If he keeps this up, then plenty of carries will be coming his way when the real action arrives.

Loser No. 2

Bobby Price - Commanders CB

Once the starting cornerbacks — who were already without the services of second-round rookie Trey Amos — left the game, things unraveled quickly further down the depth chart. This won't go unnoticed by general manager Adam Peters, so expect to see some tryouts in the coming days.

Any new arrivals won't bode well for Bobby Price after this performance. The veteran defensive back was a weak link that the Cincinnati Bengals looked to exploit at every opportunity. There were a couple of nice plays in coverage, but it was nowhere near the desired level overall.

The former Norfolk State star was on and off the practice squad last season. Price got another reserve/futures deal from the organization, but his fortunes are now hanging by a thread.

If the Commanders believe that an upgrade can be found at some stage, Price might be the player who makes way. And judging on this performance, he can have absolutely no complaints.

Winner No. 2

Jaylin Lane - Commanders WR

After being used sparingly during Washington's first preseason outing against the New England Patriots, fans got a longer look at what Jaylin Lane could potentially bring to the table in 2025. And they left suitably impressed.

The No. 128 overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft is a dynamic playmaker. Lane makes things happen with the football in his hands and boasts enough speed to create separation if he gets off press coverage effectively. For the first time, the former Virginia Tech standout showcased these credentials in a typical NFL game-day setting.

Lane brought in three receptions, including an eye-catching grab downfield, from six targets for 46 receiving yards. This comfortably led all Washington's wideouts on a night where the passing game couldn't get going consistently enough.

This is a step in the right direction for Lane. Once the rookie fourth-rounder builds enough chemistry with Jayden Daniels and earns more trust from Kliff Kingsbury, he's got a role to play.