Jacob Martin - Commanders DE/OLB
You don't need to be a nuclear physicist to figure out the one stumbling block that could hold the Washington Commanders back in 2025. That, of course, is the perceived lack of explosive pass-rushers at the team's disposal.
Adam Peters seemed content enough with what he had, which bemused most fans. A couple of veterans came into the ranks in free agency. Still, the general manager ignored what was perceived as an exceptional group of edge rushers emerging from the college ranks this spring.
It's a make-or-break scenario that could legitimately go either way. Peters still has cash to find another experienced presence if the situation dictates. He's also willing to give those currently on the books a shot over the opening stages of training camp before taking further action.
Jacob Martin is one of the new arrivals under pressure to make an immediate impact. He can play at the defensive end spot or as a stand-up edge rusher, which makes him a potential replacement for Dante Fowler Jr. after he bolted in free agency for the Dallas Cowboys. However, that's asking a lot from someone who's gained just 21 career sacks in seven years.
In contrast, Fowler secured 10.5 last season alone. Martin has to make a good first impression to cement his status as a core rotational piece.
Ben Sinnott - Commanders TE
The Commanders rightfully held firm with their tight end options this offseason. However, the dynamic must alter slightly to improve the team's long-term outlook beyond 2025.
This all centers on second-year pro Ben Sinnott. Last year's No. 53 overall selection was brought along gradually initially. The Commanders had a rejuvenated Zach Ertz as the primary pass-catcher and John Bates as the blocking specialist, so the coaching staff had the luxury of making the rookie a development project in Year 1 of his professional career.
Sinnott flashed as a blocker and a pass-catcher when limited involvement came his way. There was nothing to suggest he could not become a bigger part of the team's offensive strategy, and the early signs this offseason suggest improvements have been made away from the franchise.
Head coach Dan Quinn singled out Sinnott for special praise, which is encouraging. He'll still be a rotational piece next season, but if he shows enough and takes advantage of opportunities when they arise, the former Kansas State star could start eating into Ertz's targets.
That represents the best-case scenario for the Commanders, especially considering this could be Ertz's final campaign before retirement. The ball is in Sinnott's court, so delivering early at training camp is crucial.