Jordan Magee - Commanders LB
Bobby Wagner wasn't present on Day 1 of mandatory minicamp. The accomplished linebacker was dealing with a personal issue and is expected back for Day 2. However, this gave a chance to one fledgling hopeful on the first-team rotation.
With Wagner unable to fill his usual duties, the Washington Commanders got a prolonged look at Jordan Magee with the first-team unit. The former Temple star wasn't going to waste this opportunity.
Magee caught the eye of those in attendance. He was explosive and didn't look out of place whatsoever. This is exactly what defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. wanted to see, especially considering he's already declared an intent to get him involved in more three-linebacker sets next season.
The No. 139 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft made a huge impression at early workouts last year. Magee's momentum came screeching to an abrupt halt after a knee injury required surgery. The Commanders took their time with the player upon his return, but it seems like he's ready to be unleashed this time around.
There's no doubt Magee is firmly behind Wagner and Frankie Luvu in the linebacking food chain. But if the same trend continues, he'll be on the field much more in 2025.
Jonathan Jones - Commanders CB
There has been a significant amount of hype around second-round cornerback Trey Amos throughout early workouts. However, the Commanders always make their prized rookies earn starting jobs rather than being handed anything outright.
Joe Whitt Jr. slotted veteran Jonathan Jones opposite the returning Marshon Lattimore during team drills on Day 1 of Washington's mandatory minicamp, according to those in attendance. The two-time Super Bowl winner joined in free agency this year after a glittering spell with the New England Patriots. It's early days, but this looks like it could be a tremendous piece of business when it's all said and done.
Jones was hugely impressive, based on the reports coming from the media. His previous accomplishments need no introduction, although there was notable regression in his coverage capabilities last time around. If the former undrafted free agent out of Auburn can bounce back in a winning environment, the better Washington's defensive aspirations will be.
In an ideal world, Amos will continue his impressive transition and become the outside starter from Week 1. This would leave Jones as a rotational piece capable of slotting in seamlessly depending on the specific matchup. That's not a bad tool for Whitt to call upon as the Commanders aim for another deep postseason run in 2025.