Luke McCaffrey - Commanders WR
Luke McCaffrey is a curious case heading into his second offseason as an NFL pro. The Washington Commanders used him sparingly in the passing attack in 2024 and didn't feature him much in the return game until late in proceedings. That makes him an unknown quantity.
McCaffrey flashed moments of promise. The No. 100 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft created some decent separation and was generally reliable when targets came his way. However, there was something that caused the coaching staff to keep him on the fringes during his rookie transition.
The former Rice standout is a work in progress, but the Commanders only have two wide receivers under contract right now. Washington's moves this offseason will give fans a better indication of how McCaffrey's development is being perceived by those in positions of power.
Ben Sinnott is in the same boat after playing second fiddle to veteran tight end Zach Ertz. The Commanders believed both come with long-term promise. At the same time, they need to progress quickly with the team's Super Bowl window officially open.
Washington needs to prioritize the options around quarterback Jayden Daniels. Just how much they strengthen the ranks could have lingering implications on McCaffrey's depth chart status.
Jonathan Allen - Commanders DT
One of the most difficult decisions this offseason — from the outside looking in, at least — centers on the future of defensive tackle Jonathan Allen. What conclusion Adam Peters reaches comes with significant ramifications attached.
Allen remains a supreme leader within the locker room. His on-field production has notably regressed over the last two years, but the two-time Pro Bowler is respected by the fanbase and revered by his teammates.
That's a testament to his impact since joining the Commanders as a first-round pick in 2017. However, it's also worth remembering that general manager Adam Peters is running the football operation with no sentiment attached.
That leaves Allen's status hanging in the balance. The defensive tackle has one more year on his deal with no guaranteed money. Trading or releasing him comes with $16.47 million in savings with $6 million in dead money. Although tempting, Peters could decide to let things play out.
It's something to monitor closely. The Commanders need more in the trenches to keep pace with the Philadelphia Eagles. It doesn't seem likely Daron Payne or Johnny Newton will be made surplus to requirements. If Washington lands a free agent such as Milton Williams or Osa Odighizuwa, the chances of Allen's departure increase.
While it would be surprising if Allen wasn't around to see things through, it's a precarious situation.