Drew Stevens - Commanders PK
The Washington Commanders saw enough from Jake Moody last season to give him another one-year deal. While he didn't leave the best final impression, Adam Peters thought a full offseason to embrace the culture and continue improving could be enough for more consistency next time around.
This became a divisive issue among the fan base. Some thought Moody was deserving, while others wanted to find a longer-term option via the college ranks to at least provide some semblance of competition to raise urgency. It looked as if this wouldn't arrive for a long time, but plans change quickly in the NFL.
Washington initially invited Drew Stevens to attend its rookie minicamp. When there was interest from elsewhere, potentially even with a better offer on the table, Peters wasn't going to leave anything to chance. The Commanders gave the Iowa product an undrafted free agent contract instead, which could result in a summer-long battle with Moody for the starting job.
The four-time All-Big Ten kicker is accurate. Stevens has the leg strength Moody doesn't, and he developed the mindset needed to come through in clutch moments throughout his time with the Hawkeyes. Now, he gets his chance to stake a claim, and the Commanders will be watching closely.
Fred Davis II - Commanders CB
Despite some significant improvements across the defense this offseason, the Commanders have deprioritized the cornerback room. While there is still a chance for another addition to join the ranks at some stage, general manager Adam Peters decided to allocate his primary resources to the front seven.
Marshon Lattimore was released, saving $18.5 million against the salary cap. Jonathan Jones left for the Philadelphia Eagles, and Noah Igbinoghene landed a superb opportunity with the Seattle Seahawks. Veteran corners Amik Robertson and Ahkello Witherspoon were signed in free agency. One is undersized, while the other is injury-prone.
Trey Amos and Mike Sainristil have promise, but the cupboard is relatively bare aside from this quartet. That could provide an opening for someone like Fred Davis II to make his presence felt.
Davis was a highly touted four-star high school recruit, generating substantial interest before opting to join Clemson. But aside from some notable coverage flashes, he never really established himself over three years, transferring to Central Florida and then Jacksonville State before his final year of eligibility at Northwestern.
The incoming rookie is a fluid mover with sufficient speed. Davis can attack the football, though his tackling technique needs refinement. He is a versatile scheme player, which is why the Commanders have shown interest. And there could be a window to strike if he hits the ground running.
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