Brian Robinson Jr. - Commanders RB
The Washington Commanders were expected to improve their running back room, and with urgency, this offseason. Fans wanted to see a fresh injection of energy into the backfield alongside star quarterback Jayden Daniels. Some were left perplexed by Adam Peters' approach.
Washington held firm with its options from last season. Peters brought one new addition into the fold, but it wasn't until the seventh round of the 2025 NFL Draft. That left sections of the team's support scratching their heads in disbelief, but the Commanders believed the ground game could be more consistent with a stronger offensive line to depend upon.
This also gave Brian Robinson Jr. the vote of confidence he desperately needed. It's a contract year for the Alabama product, so he won't be lacking in motivation. That was reflected in his demeanor and urgency over Washington's offseason program. He's eager to repay the faith.
It's a promising start for Robinson, whose role will be integral once again in 2025. He'll lead from the front, with Austin Ekeler and rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt occupying complementary roles. Nothing is guaranteed beyond the upcoming campaign, but he's in the best possible position for another commitment from the organization if everything goes well.
Brandon Coleman - Commanders OL
The Commanders swing for the fences with Laremy Tunsil and Josh Conerly Jr. as their new bookend tackle tandem tasked with protecting quarterback Jayden Daniels. But there's also hope that a position switch for Brandon Coleman can bring more from the 2024 third-round pick.
Coleman got a crash course in what it takes to succeed in the NFL as a rookie. The Commanders thrust him into the mix as their starting left tackle, initially sharing responsibilities with Cornelius Lucas before taking the job full-time. There were plenty of good moments, but his skills are better suited to the interior.
Thankfully, this was an opinion also shared by the primary decision-makers. Tunsil will be the new blindside protector on the edge, which represents a significant upgrade. Dan Quinn revealed that Coleman will move to left guard, which could be a game-changer if everything comes together.
It's a challenge Coleman relished during Washington's offseason program. His versatility and willingness to do whatever it takes the help the team are big reasons why the Commanders drafted him. There's a long way to go and greater challenges to come, but the initial signs are promising.
If Coleman can solidify the left guard spot long-term, that'll stand the Commanders in tremendous stead once Sam Cosmi recovers from his torn ACL.