Chris Moore - Commanders WR
Competition for places in the Washington Commanders' wide receiver room remains fierce. Terry McLaurin's ongoing contract standoff is a distraction the team could do without, but others are getting the chance to impress as the second-team All-Pro digs in.
The early signs were encouraging this summer. However, joint practice and a preseason game against the New England Patriots exposed some potential flaws further down the depth chart that raised urgency to get something worked out with McLaurin.
Adam Peters opted not to bring in another receiver this week. That's a vote of confidence in those currently around, but the general manager will be watching their progress closer than ever. And one could argue that nobody lost more ground over the last few days than Chris Moore.
The veteran emerged as a standout to start the summer, forcing his way into the team's plans. Moore was tipped by some to be a lively candidate to make the squad, but dropping two passes versus the Patriots brought his momentum screeching to an abrupt halt.
Moore making the squad was always a long shot. A massive effort is needed to bounce back after this setback, but any additional failings over the next fortnight are not going to look favorably on the player.
Tyre Phillips - Commanders OT
The Commanders are dealing with some issues on their offensive line right now. Nobody is pressing the panic button just yet, but it's something fans will be monitoring closely before attention turns to Week 1 against the New York Giants next month.
Stud right guard Sam Cosmi is working his way back from a torn ACL. Dan Quinn didn't completely rule him out from immediate inclusion, but it wouldn't be surprising to see the former second-round pick start on the physically unable to perform list.
Brandon Coleman, who's transitioning to the left guard spot this season, has been missing over the last week after leaving practice. The Commanders are erring on the side of caution, but it's important he gets back quickly.
There aren't any problems on the edge. Laremy Tunsil is as advertised, and Josh Conerly Jr. has come on significantly in recent days. That's not the case with Tyre Phillips, the free-agent signing who was looking to carve out a backup role for himself in 2025.
Phillips underperformed in Washington's preseason opener against the Patriots. The Commanders have already shown a willingness to remove those who aren't part of the team's plans, so the experienced veteran is already fighting a losing battle in his quest to make the team.