Jacob Martin - Commanders DE/OLB
Not many fans are satisfied with the Washington Commanders' pass-rushing options heading into the 2025 season. Adam Peters holds a different opinion, and he's willing to see how things unfold over the opening stages of camp before deciding on anything further.
That's a big vote of confidence in the options already around and those who joined the ranks this offseason. Jacob Martin is one of them, who's got the physical profile to be a ready-made replacement for Dante Fowler Jr. after he bolted for the Dallas Cowboys in free agency.
The former sixth-round pick out of Temple has been a journeyman throughout his career. Martin's had trouble sticking anywhere aside from his three years with the Houston Texans. Asking him to become a core rotational piece in Washington is a stretch, but those in power still see some untapped potential in the 29-year-old.
Martin has a legitimate shot, but it doesn't come with any guarantees whatsoever. His one-year deal is pretty easy to get off, so avoiding complacency at all costs is crucial. Anything less could potentially come with detrimental ramifications attached.
The early signs were relatively positive for Martin. No pass-rusher blew media members away over Washington's offseason program. However, there's still time when things get more intense.
Austin Ekeler - Commanders RB
Austin Ekeler's first season in Washington was pretty solid overall. The running back was never going to shoulder the sort of responsibilities he generated with the Los Angeles Chargers. But that's exactly what the veteran wanted to prolong his career.
Ekeler emerged as a decent pass-catching option out of the backfield. He earned second-team All-Pro honors as a kick returner, and his leadership in the locker room represented another significant asset to call upon. Even so, some obvious negatives left many fans clamoring for change in the backfield.
The former undrafted free agent's costly fumble in the NFC Championship game left a sour taste in the mouth. Ekeler also dealt with some concerning concussion issues, so there's just no telling what another devastating hit will do. He's carrying on, which is fine, but the Commanders will keep a close eye on developments over camp.
Washington spent its seventh-round selection on Jacory Croskey-Merritt. He's got the look of a massive steal and wants to impact the running back rotation immediately. Unless Ekeler responds positively, his place would be more under threat than Brian Robinson Jr.'s right now.
Considering the Commanders now have Luke McCaffrey and Jaylin Lane to handle kick-return duties, Ekeler might become surplus to requirements when push comes to shove.