Winner No. 2
Chig Okonkwo - Commanders TE
Chig Okonkwo has a lot of expectations on his shoulders. After an impressive summer so far from the athletically gifted tight end, they are only growing.
The Washington Commanders believe Okonkwo can offer a different dynamic to the offense. He's fast, explosive, and a real threat with the football in his hands. And working closely with prolific former wide receiver Wes Welker is bringing even more from the Maryland product.
Okonkwo's flashes over the opening week of camp were evident. His connection with quarterback Jayden Daniels continues to blossom, and he's making plays all over the field. If the same trend continues during the regular season, the veteran could potentially emerge as the No. 2 option in the passing game behind Terry McLaurin.
Rookie offensive coordinator David Blough is projected to use tight ends more heavily within his scheme. Okonkwo will lead the charge, and he looks well on course for a genuine breakout campaign.
Loser No. 1
Nick Allegretti - Commanders OL
The Commanders made the bold move to release starting center Tyler Biadasz, who had one year remaining on his deal, this offseason. It was a contentious decision, but those in power were confident that Nick Allegretti could step up and fill the void effectively within David Blough's new blocking concepts.
Allegretti got a new deal instead of being released. It was the biggest vote of confidence imaginable, but this positivity came screeching to an abrupt halt on the first day of training camp.
The former Illinois standout left practice and did not return. It was later revealed that Allegretti is dealing with a calf strain, and even though it is not seen as a long-term issue, he's going to miss time this summer.
If there was one player who couldn't afford to miss any practice reps, it's Allegretti. He is relatively new to the center position, so the Commanders will be hoping this disrupted camp will not have any lingering effects when the regular season begins.
Winner No. 3
Rasul Douglas - Commanders CB
When the Commanders signed Rasul Douglas to a one-year deal worth up to $3.8 million shortly before training camp, it was met with widespread approval. The cornerback is experienced and instantly improved the team's depth. But the opening week of training camp suggested he can become a lot more.
With Trey Amos still on the shelf, Douglas got a good run with the first-string defense. He took full advantage, looking accomplished in coverage and opportunistic when turnover chances came his way.
Douglas seems to be picking things up quickly, which is another bonus. He's a proven veteran with the size, length, and physicality to fit well into Daronte Jones' scheme. It's still early days, but this could be another shrewd addition to the ranks.
We'll find out a lot more about where Douglas really fits into the strategy when Amos gets back into the lineup. Until then, the West Virginia product is getting noticed in the best possible way.
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