Winner No. 3
Brian Robinson Jr. - Commanders RB
Brian Robinson Jr. didn't participate in the Washington Commanders' preseason game versus the New England Patriots. Still, one couldn't have been anything other than impressed by the way he applied himself throughout the week in practice.
Robinson is going to lead the running back charge once again. This is a contract year for the Alabama product, and it's bringing more leadership and urgency. He's setting the correct standards and meeting all his targets, which has brought praise from offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury and others over the summer.
It's difficult to truly assess running backs at this stage. Even so, Robinson's aggression and explosiveness stood out during joint practice with the Patriots — a sign that the former third-round pick is ready to hit the ground running.
Austin Ekeler still has a role to play, and the emergence of seventh-round rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt continues to bring intrigue. But the ground game will go as far as Robinson takes it in 2025.
Loser No. 3
Dominique Hampton - Commanders LB
Dominique Hampton got a pass for his slow transition last season. The Commanders were converting the college safety to the linebacker spot, which was always going to come with some growing pains. Even so, it's not been the best week for a player who could now find his roster spot in jeopardy.
The 2024 fifth-rounder is physically gifted. That's enough to impress in college, but more is needed in the pros. The former Washington Huskies standout is finding that out the hard way this summer.
With Bobby Wagner, Frankie Luvu, and Jordan Magee all missing the Commanders' preseason opener versus the Patriots, the coaching staff gave Hampton a chance to shine at the defensive second level. He didn't take advantage, turning in a poor display that centered on anticipation and positioning deficiencies.
This won't go unnoticed by head coach Dan Quinn and his staff during their comprehensive analysis of the contest. This week is huge for Hampton in the pursuit of turning the tide.
Winner No. 4
Ja'Corey Brooks - Commanders WR
Terry McLaurin's absence is becoming a frustrating part of Washington's plans for the upcoming campaign. We've already discussed the implications that could arise if this drags out any longer, especially considering the team's wide receiver depth was exposed in recent days.
There isn't enough without McLaurin. The sooner he gets back into the fold, the better Washington's chances will be. Until then, the coaching staff will expect more from those who are being given opportunities.
That's why it's been a profitable week for Ja'Corey Brooks. The undrafted free agent started training camp exceptionally well before fading somewhat. However, the rookie showed what he was capable of against NFL opposition during joint practice and a preseason game against the Patriots.
After catching the eye at practice, Brooks took this through into a more competitive setting with five receptions from as many targets for 59 receiving yards. If the same trend continues over the next fortnight, he might find his way onto the 53-man roster.