Winner No. 4
Van Jefferson Jr. - Commanders WR
There remain concerns around the wide receiver options behind Terry McLaurin on the depth chart. Reporters at minicamp noted some early struggles from the group, which cannot be ignored. Brandon Aiyuk's potential arrival is hanging over the Washington Commanders, but they are not forcing the issue.
Not everyone failed to meet expectations at minicamp. Van Jefferson Jr. was among those who made the most of his opportunities, coming up with several big plays and showcasing what he could potentially bring to the offense.
Jefferson is more experienced than most vying for roster spots. His production has declined in recent years, but standing out now will serve him well before tougher challenges arrive over training camp and the preseason.
And if he keeps outperforming others, he'll be rewarded accordingly.
More arrivals will only make things more difficult for Jefferson and everyone else. But for now, the former Florida standout has strengthened his claims.
Loser No. 3
Foster Sarell - Commanders OT
The Commanders have Josh Conerly Jr. and Laremy Tunsil as their offensive tackle tandem. Their blossoming relationship could be a massive asset for Washington, which will only help quarterback Jayden Daniels' chances of returning to the form that saw him take the league by storm in 2024.
Every team needs solid backup options. Just who that'll be for the Commanders remains to be seen, but Foster Sarell's second stint with the club hasn't brought much early success.
Those in attendance at minicamp acknowledged Sarell's difficulties, especially when going up against fifth-round rookie Joshua Josephs. It's difficult to judge linemen until the pads go on at training camp, so he will get the benefit of the doubt for now.
Sarell didn't do enough to make the Commanders' 53-man roster last summer. Those in power wanted to give him another shot to see if growth would arrive under David Blough's new blocking concepts. However, it already looks as if the same fate could befall him.
Winner No. 5
K'Lavon Chaisson - Commanders OLB
All the hype has centered on big money signing Odafe Oweh and first-round linebacker Sonny Styles. Still, another new defensive acquisition is gaining significant early momentum.
Despite having a longer deal on the table from the New Orleans Saints, edge rusher K'Lavon Chaisson thought the Commanders represented the best place to earn a much bigger payday in 2027. His breakout with the New England Patriots last time around was encouraging. Turning it into sustained production is the next, and more difficult, challenge.
The initial signs couldn't be more promising. NFL Network insider Mike Garafolo visited the Commanders on their final day of mandatory minicamp, and Chaisson's name came up often among those who've laid down a strong marker. Washington has an abundance of pass-rushing options, but the LSU product looks primed for an important role within Daronte Jones' scheme.
Chaisson's self-confidence is soaring. If this upward trajectory continues into the regular season, he'll be a very wealthy man this time next year.
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