Javontae Jean-Baptiste - Commanders DE/OLB
Concerns about the Washington Commanders' pass-rushing options were eased by the signing of Von Miller. Asking the future Pro Football Hall of Famer to accumulate starting reps at this late stage of his playing career is unrealistic, but there's nothing to suggest he cannot make a difference as a rotational specialist if Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. pick their spots effectively.
Miller's credentials need no introduction. He's also keen to pass on his knowledge to younger teammates. This is an exceptional tool for them to utilize, and the early signs at training camp indicate that Javontae Jean-Baptiste is making the most of it.
The former seventh-round selection did well to make the squad last summer. Jean-Baptiste dealt with some injury issues, but there were also some encouraging flashes when opportunities came his way. Much more is needed for an expanded role, which is bringing a positive response at camp.
Jean-Baptiste looks comfortable. He's forcing the issue, but in a measured manner. The game has slowed down for him with extra experience and scheme familiarity. And he's making things extremely uncomfortable for any offensive lineman in his path.
While the Notre Dame product will likely be a rotational backup once again, don't be surprised if Jean-Baptiste makes a bigger impact if his camp showing to date is brought into the regular season.
Brandon Coleman - Commanders OL
Brandon Coleman has gone to the proverbial shadows this offseason as the forgotten man in Washington's new offensive line dynamic. However, that doesn't mean the 2024 third-round selection isn't an important element of the equation.
Coleman endured a rollercoaster rookie campaign. The Commanders tasked him with substantial responsibilities, initially sharing left tackle duties with Cornelius Lucas before assuming complete command of the blindside spot. This came with plenty of positives, but there were also severe growing pains that brought drastic action from general manager Adam Peters.
Protecting quarterback Jayden Daniels was Peters' biggest priority. The Commanders made a monumental splash by trading for Laremy Tunsil. They spent the No. 29 pick on Josh Conerly Jr. This is an undoubted positive, but it left Coleman with an uncertain future.
The Commanders hadn't lost faith in Coleman; they just felt his physical attributes would be better suited on the interior. This was the opinion of many draft analysts before he came into the league, and it seems their assessments were accurate.
Coleman is being deployed as the starting left guard next to Tunsil. That's the best security blanket imaginable for the TCU product, and the fact that he's growing in stature as camp gathers pace is a testament to his adaptability.