Winner No. 4
Amik Robertson - Commanders CB
A few eyebrows were raised when the Washington Commanders signed Amik Robertson in free agency. They made him a top priority, and the cornerback became Washington's first signing during the legal tampering window.
Nobody is questioning the move now.
Robertson has been an absolute revelation through four weeks. He looks like a legitimate lockdown presence on the boundary, performing at an All-Pro level. It's been the most pleasant surprise imaginable, and he's quickly become an indispensable part of the team's plans.
Robertson's energy and passion are inspiring others. He never backs down from a fight, and he's making a huge impression in every phase. Very few receivers in the league are getting the better of him, which nobody would have predicted before the campaign.
Keeping up these exceptional levels will be difficult. But if Robertson can maintain such high standards, he could become one of the offseason's best signings.
Loser No. 3
Jacory Croskey-Merritt - Commanders RB
Jacory Croskey-Merritt's rookie surge was a breath of fresh air when things weren't going well for the Commanders. But being a surprise nobody saw coming is very different from being an offensive focal point.
This is a year-to-year league. Croskey-Merritt was a sensation in Year 1, but that counts for very little now. Sustaining this production is key to a long career, and a lot of hard work remains over the remaining 13 contests.
Croskey-Merritt's been a disappointment this season. One can place some blame on the offensive line's inability to create the rushing lanes needed, but he's got to be better. The contact balance seems off, and the conviction isn't at the same level as last year. He's got enough talent to turn things around, but the Commanders also have other options.
The Commanders have Austin Ekeler, Rachaad White, and Jeremy McNichols. They cut Kaytron Allen, but he could return to the practice squad. This raises the stakes, and Croskey-Merritt must improve.
Winner No. 5
Josh Conerly Jr. - Commanders OT
Josh Conerly Jr. spent the offseason getting in shape, learning from five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil, and working on some technical flaws. It's showing in his on-field performance.
Conerly has had no bedding-in period this time around. Tunsil tore his triceps at training camp, so he had to lock down his side of the line. Real problems exist elsewhere on the protection, but the 2025 first-round pick out of Oregon is not one of them.
Conerly has been exceptional. His counter moves have taken a notable step forward, and he's able to handle power rushes much better these days.
That all stems from hard work and a willingness to improve. Conerly hasn't given up a sack this season, becoming a stone wall in pass-blocking situations while also displaying more power on running plays.
When the Commanders needed Conerly to step up, he's answered the call. And if this is a sign of things to come, he'll be a franchise cornerstone in no time.
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