It was probably a relief for first-year players to get back onto the practice field at the Washington Commanders' annual rookie minicamp. After months of testing, interviews, and wondering what the next step will hold, they can now fully focus on the task at hand.
Washington's six draft picks joined undrafted free agents, tryout hopefuls, and even some second-year players on the field. The Commanders gave them a loaded schedule during their initial introduction to NFL-caliber practices. And the reports were largely encouraging.
The Commanders need their first-year players to develop in the coming months. Some will have higher expectations on their shoulders than others, but everyone will get a fair shot. Head coach Dan Quinn and his staff were putting the rookies through their paces, and the likes of general manager Adam Peters were also keeping a close eye on developments over the two-day event.
This is just the first stepping stone, of course. Things will ramp up when they join forces with the veterans for OTAs. After that, it'll be mandatory minicamp, training camp, and the preseason. Even so, it was important to lay down an early marker before the challenges get much more difficult.
With this in mind, here are five winners and two losers from a fascinating rookie minicamp.
Winners and losers from the Washington Commanders' 2026 rookie minicamp
Winner No. 1
Kaytron Allen - Commanders RB
The Washington Commanders didn't get the chance to draft Jeremiyah Love, who went No. 3 overall to the Arizona Cardinals. However, there are encouraging signs around who they eventually took instead.
Kaytron Allen was a Day 3 pick. He was highly productive at Penn State. Though he doesn't possess the elite breakaway speed of the league's most prolific running backs, he's a powerful runner between the tackles who can set the tone.
Allen put that on full display over Washington's rookie minicamp. Those in attendance were taken aback by his size and physicality in the short areas of the field. There is some work ahead to evolve as a pass-catcher, but the Commanders wouldn't need much of that from him with their other backfield options.
ESPN team insider John Keim thought Allen could be in line for a role similar to how David Montgomery was used by the Detroit Lions before his departure via trade to the Houston Texans. Expect the sixth-round pick to be a short-yardage back on early downs, keeping defenses honest. He could also be an asset to call upon in the red zone if his patience improves.
If Allen can carve out this role for himself, the No. 187 selection will be another Day 3 gem.
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