Noah Igbinoghene - Commanders CB
One of the biggest positives to emerge from training camp so far is the secondary. They have dominated almost from start to finish, flying around the field and making life extremely uncomfortable for the offensive unit in every phase.
This is exactly what the Washington Commanders had in mind. They want the cornerback unit to become an area of strength, and everything is proceeding as anticipated so far.
Some are gaining more hype than others. Mike Sainristil, Marshon Lattimore, and second-round rookie Trey Amos have generated the lion's share of positive headlines. However, it would be foolish to ignore the contribution made by Noah Igbinoghene.
Igbinoghene became the forgotten man this offseason despite getting a new one-year deal from the organization. The former first-round pick enjoyed the best campaign of his professional career in 2024, displaying impressive coverage abilities in some big-time moments. There remain some deficiencies against the run, but it represented a step in the right direction nonetheless.
This was an undoubted positive, but the former Auburn star must prove himself all over again this summer. Competition for places is fierce, but Igbinoghene is taking his game up another notch, too.
That's only going to bode well for the Commanders if everyone else meets their end of the bargain.
Luke McCaffrey - Commanders WR
All the hype centers on wide receiver Terry McLaurin and when his contract situation will come to a successful conclusion. He's back in the building on the physically unable to perform list with an ankle injury. However, both sides are reportedly nowhere close to finding some middle ground right now.
Until McLaurin makes his triumphant return to the practice field, others must step up. Some are gaining more hype than others, but Luke McCaffrey is quietly stacking good days en route to additional involvement this time around.
McCaffrey looks much more comfortable in his second offseason with the squad. The Commanders didn't quite trust him with substantial targets as a rookie, although he saw the field plenty. Washington's coaching staff has put a lot more on his plate this summer, which has brought a positive response so far.
The former third-round pick out of Rice is making plays. McCaffrey has extra familiarity with Kliff Kingsbury's schematic concepts, and it shows. There is also a lot to like about his improved chemistry with quarterback Jayden Daniels to further raise optimism.
Watching how McCaffrey fares in joint practices and the preseason will provide a better measuring stick regarding his progress. Until then, all signs are pointing up.