Amik Robertson - Commanders CB
With second-year cornerback Trey Amos missing the first four games of the season on injured reserve, the Washington Commanders are relying on others to pick up the slack. This also places more onus on veteran Amik Robertson to hit the ground running.
Amos was expected to be Washington's top corner this year. His size, physicality, and athleticism will be missed, especially against the Philadelphia Eagles. And even though A.J. Brown is no longer around, their passing game should still be formidable if Sean Mannion's scheme has the desired effect.
With Brown now with the New England Patriots, it provides an opportunity for DeVonta Smith to be the top dog. He's not as physically imposing, but the Alabama product is a crisp route runner who thrives in contested catch situations. Considering Robertson isn't the tallest corner, that could present a problem for the Commanders.
It's unlikely that any of Washington's corners will shadow Smith. They know Rasul Douglas is a more physical presence, so the Eagles may look to exploit Robertson as a potential weak link. He won't be found wanting for effort, but that might not be enough against the dynamic pass-catcher.
This makes it even more important for Washington to generate pressure. That will help Robertson, but the size of this task cannot be overstated.
Nick Allegretti - Commanders OL
The Washington Commanders' big gamble at center is about to get a litmus test of epic proportions to begin the campaign.
All signs point to Nick Allegretti taking his place in the starting lineup after missing the entire summer with a calf strain. However, the veteran will have his hands full with stud nose tackle Jordan Davis.
And that's an understatement.
Philadelphia's interior game-wrecker is a massive presence in more ways than one. Davis always had the physical gifts. Once he improved his conditioning heading into the 2025 campaign, the former Georgia standout took his game to even greater heights.
The Eagles recognized his importance to their plans and gave Davis a lucrative contract extension. Allegretti won't have to deal with him alone, but the Commanders cannot double-team him and Jalen Carter at the same time.
This is a problem. And unless Allegretti alleviates the concerns around his ability to be consistent, quarterback Jayden Daniels will have to make plenty of plays out of structure.
Washington placed a lot of faith in Allegretti this offseason. His production at either guard spot doesn't exactly inspire confidence, but those in power believe he's better suited to center duties. With Davis first up, fans will quickly learn what the Illinois product can do.
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