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5 winners (and 2 losers) from Commanders 2026 rookie minicamp

The first stepping stones are in the books.
Washington Commanders running back Kaytron Allen
Washington Commanders running back Kaytron Allen | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
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Winner No. 2

Joshua Josephs - Commanders DE/OLB

The Washington Commanders saw something others didn't in Joshua Josephs. When he somehow made it all the way down to the fifth round, Adam Peters didn't hesitate to add yet another intriguing name to the edge-rushing room.

Josephs was projected by most draft experts to be a Day 2 pick. When he slipped midway into Day 3, that was too good an opportunity for Peters to pass up. The Tennessee product believes he can make a difference, and he got off to a good start at Washington's rookie minicamp.

Those in attendance noted Josephs' athleticism, length, and burst off the snap as traits that stood out. Forcing the issue as a rotational pass-rusher is the primary objective initially. And the creative scheme being implemented by new coordinator Daronte Jones should also benefit the rookie.

The former Volunteers standout is still down in the pecking order, but Josephs is a player to watch over the summer.

Loser No. 1

Jake Moody - Commanders PK

The Commanders acted swiftly when undrafted kicker Drew Stevens was getting interest from the Buffalo Bills and Tennessee Titans. Washington initially extended an invitation to its rookie minicamp, but that quickly turned into a formal contract when it looked like they might lose him to a better offer.

Stevens thought this was the best place to carve out a role for himself, and he left a notable impression. Team reporters noted his leg strength as a major positive throughout minicamp, and special teams coordinator Larry Izzo was closely watching his progress.

Head coach Dan Quinn was suitably impressed, too. He revealed that there will be a genuine kicking competition over the summer, which is not what veteran Jake Moody wanted to hear.

Moody might have thought this would be nothing more than a flash in the pan, and he'd still get the starting job. That might still be the case, but he must earn that right just like everyone else.

Winner No. 3

Antonio Williams - Commanders WR

The Commanders needed another capable wide receiver from the draft. That was non-negotiable, and it already looks like they might have a steal on their hands in third-round pick Antonio Williams.

There is a lot to like about Williams' ability to be impactful within David Blough's new schematic concepts. He was projected as a first-round pick before the 2025 season, but injury problems and Clemson's collapse saw his stock slide. That worked out well for Washington, and those in attendance over the two-day rookie minicamp came away impressed.

John Keim of ESPN was among those who noted the suddenness of Williams' route stems and how quickly he turned upfield after making the catch. This matches the tape from his college days with the Tigers, so it's a solid platform from which to build.

Williams has a real shot at earning his fair share of targets immediately. More help might be coming to the wideout unit, but optimism around the rookie continues to grow.

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