Marshon Lattimore - Commanders CB
There is something different about Marshon Lattimore this time around. The veteran cornerback is fully healthy and ready to remind the world why he was such a highly touted acquisition before the 2024 trade deadline.
Lattimore has benefited tremendously from an extended rest period. It's given the hamstring issue that blighted his production when on the field last season time to heal. The explosiveness and athleticism have returned, and the Commanders' secondary is going to be in a much better place because of it.
The former first-round pick out of Ohio State was among the top-level performers on Day 2 of Washington's mandatory minicamp. Lattimore looked assured in coverage during the team portion of practice. The speed with which he broke on the ball to deny Noah Brown a big completion was especially encouraging, according to those in attendance.
It's early days, but the difference is notable. Lattimore admitted he never felt right last season. He wanted to fight through the pain and repay the Commanders for their faith, but it wasn't to be. Thankfully, everything has changed.
Lattimore is fit and firing. If the same trend continues over the summer, fans should expect the four-time Pro Bowler to become a shutdown coverage presence on the boundary that could change everything.
Ben Sinnott - Commanders TE
It didn't take long for head coach Dan Quinn to single out Ben Sinnott for special praise. The head coach is thrilled with the way he's applied himself throughout the offseason. And the initial on-field results are evident.
Sinnott is looking to firmly establish himself in Year 2 of his professional career. The 2024 second-round pick was used sparingly as a rookie but did flash when called upon. Even though Zach Ertz and John Bates were both deservedly given new deals in free agency, fans are expecting more from the Kansas State graduate.
It's a steep challenge for Sinnott. However, it's bringing a positive response from the athletic tight end over early workouts.
There's an extra sense of sharpness to Sinnott's route-running and explosiveness out of his cuts according to those watching on at Washington's mandatory minicamp. He's creating separation with more frequency, which is helping build trust with quarterback Jayden Daniels for good measure.
Sinnott is already an outstanding blocker. If he can refine his pass-catching prowess and gradually establish himself, it'll provide Daniels with two legitimate options in the tight end room that he can depend upon in key moments.
Ertz is playing well, but he isn't going to be around forever. Sinnott showing TE1 capabilities would be an amazing development.