Winner No. 2
Johnny Newton - Commanders DL
Dan Quinn is expecting big things from third-year defensive lineman Johnny Newton in 2026. The Washington Commanders head coach believes he can thrive within Daronte Jones' system, and the 2024 second-round pick is working hard to repay this faith.
Quinn likes what he sees from Newton so far. He once again showered him with praise after a strong minicamp, building on the positive foundations laid during early offseason workouts. Getting it done in the regular season will be the litmus test, but a full offseason without any injuries is already standing him in great stead.
Just what sort of role Newton will have is the big question.
Daron Payne, Javon Kinlaw, and free-agent signing Tim Settle Jr. look set to start in Jones' 3-4 base front. Newton will be an explosive pass-rushing asset behind them. The interior lineman could become even more effective if he builds up his play strength against the run.
Loser No. 2
Ahkello Witherspoon - Commanders CB
The Commanders have their three starting cornerbacks locked in. Trey Amos, Mike Sainristil, and free-agent addition Amik Robertson seem set in their respective spots. How things shake out behind them is much more debatable.
There has been experimentation during the offseason. Quan Martin and Tyler Owens have spent time in the nickel. The likes of Tre Hawkins III and Fred Davis II have also shone. Things were less encouraging for Ahkello Witherspoon, who failed to find the consistency required over minicamp.
Witherspoon signed a one-year deal this offseason. Adam Peters knows him well from their time together on the San Francisco 49ers, and he is a solid performer when healthy. Staying off the injury list has been challenging in recent years. His up-and-down performance levels only raise concerns.
All hope is not lost with Witherspoon. He's got experience on his side, but a good training camp is critical.
Winner No. 3
Rachaad White - Commanders RB
Rachaad White bet on himself this offseason. The veteran running back reportedly turned down offers from elsewhere to join the Commanders on a one-year deal this offseason. While it's still early in the process, he already looks set to play a significant role.
White knows quarterback Jayden Daniels well. They were college teammates at Arizona State, which has enabled the new signing to transition smoothly. His burst, sharpness, and pass-catching ability have come across impressively. That doesn't guarantee success, but it's not a bad place to start by any stretch of the imagination.
The Commanders are still trying to work things out with their backfield dynamic. They have solid options, and a couple of good players will miss out. Who that'll be remains undetermined, but White's role as a dual-threat weapon is getting stronger by the day.
David Blough will probably implement a committee approach. Even so, White will play an integral role in any success.
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