Loser No. 1
Trey Rucker
The margin for error is razor-thin for undrafted free agents. They must flash immediately and give the coaching staff something to think about. Increasing curiosity is the primary objective. Anything less comes with grave consequences attached.
It's a sizable task. One that Trey Rucker unfortunately couldn't meet when push came to shove.
The Washington Commanders didn't see enough to build confidence around the versatile secondary player. He was released soon after rookie minicamp concluded, which is a damning indictment of how those in power perceive his ability.
Rucker was always facing an uphill battle. The defensive back was slightly undersized for the safety spot. He had some decent college production at Oklahoma State, but this is a different level entirely.
The Commanders aren't going to wait around on the off chance that unheralded rookies can pick things up. If the coaching staff isn't entirely convinced, they'll cut them loose. Whatever happened with Rucker over minicamp, it gave his defensive coaches enough cause to remove him from the equation with little fanfare attached.
What the future holds for Rucker is unclear. Perhaps he'll catch on somewhere else. Perhaps going to the CFL or UFL could provide the springboard to another opportunity. But his NFL dream just got much harder to reach.
Winner No. 4
Trey Amos - Commanders CB
There was fresh concern about Trey Amos heading into Washington's rookie minicamp. Revelations regarding why the physical cornerback fell to No. 61 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft centered on a back issue that came up during his medical assessments. That provided some doubt among the fanbase, especially given the health problems around four-time Pro Bowler Marshon Lattimore last season.
These fears were alleviated at minicamp. Amos looked the part during drills, according to those in attendance. He's a fluid mover with an aggressive approach that's hard not to love. The former Ole Miss star is also confident the problem won't impact his ability to make a prolonged impact over his NFL journey.
This also provoked a response from Dan Quinn. The head coach acknowledged there was a back issue that came up, but there wasn't much of an issue based on his comments. Considering how thoroughly the front office approaches everything with general manager Adam Peters leading the charge, confidence is high.
Amos has a big chip on his shoulder after the projected first-round pick fell late into the second round. The Commanders have faith that he can fulfill his promise and become an imposing boundary presence who thrives in press coverage. Keeping an eye on his health would be wise, but all signs are pointing up.