Javon Kinlaw - Commanders DL
One of the biggest positives through three weeks has been the defensive front. Concerns were widespread among the fan base after the team was overwhelmed by the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship game. It's early days, but it seems as if things are trending up for a unit integral to the team's hopes this time around.
The Washington Commanders' most significant investment in this area of the field was Javon Kinlaw in free agency. Adam Peters signed the player to a three-year, $45 million deal, which also came with a $30 million guarantee. The move was instantly deemed a massive overpay, with others claiming this gamble would backfire spectacularly.
Kinlaw heard all the criticism and was eager to silence his doubters. The South Carolina product's relentless aggression and dominant physical traits have been a revelation so far. If the same trend continues, this will be a wise investment.
A lot of Kinlaw's best work doesn't show up on the stat sheet. His explosiveness off the snap and brute strength strike fear into opposing offensive lines. Protections naturally shift towards the lineman, freeing up space for the likes of Daron Payne, Johnny Newton, and Dorance Armstrong Jr. to do damage.
Couple this with Kinlaw's outstanding prowess against the run, and it's not hard to see why optimism is surging.
Ben Sinnott - Commanders TE
Losing blocking tight end John Bates to injury was one of several blows being navigated by the Commanders. The NFL is next man up all the time, which placed the microscope firmly on 2024 second-round pick Ben Sinnott to step up when his team needed him most.
Sinnott was drafted No. 53 overall due to his athleticism in the passing game more than his blocking capabilities. They were a work in progress, but that's what the Commanders needed from the Kansas State product in Week 3 against the Las Vegas Raiders.
The Commanders demanded more from Sinnott. He answered the call through a highly encouraging display that left fans hopeful for his long-term outlook with the organization.
Whenever Sinnott's number was called, he produced the goods. He was a constant source of encouragement in the blocking aspect of playing the tight end position. He didn't catch a pass, but the Commanders didn't require that from the second-year pro. His snap count surged to 57 percent — eighth-highest on offense — which is a sign of the improved confidence in him from the coaching staff.
Bates is looking to get back sooner rather than later. He'll take over the primary blocking responsibilities, but Sinnott's effort in Week 3 represents a massive boost.