Loser No. 1
Jake Moody - Commanders PK
The Washington Commanders want to take their kicking competition right through the preseason before declaring a winner. But the second week of training camp saw a clear frontrunner emerge.
Undrafted rookie Drew Stevens has been almost flawless throughout the summer. His leg strength, accuracy, and ability to hit kicks from anywhere have seen him take the upper hand. And after meeting him every step of the way earlier in the offseason, veteran Jake Moody is now struggling to keep pace.
Moody got a new one-year deal this offseason and has the experience factor over Stevens. However, he's now displaying the same frailties as previous years, while the Iowa product looks more than capable of becoming the team's long-term answer at the kicking spot.
Obviously, Washington's warm-up slate will tell us more. If Stevens comes through these tests with flying colors, there is a good chance Moody will be on the outside looking in at some stage.
Winner No. 3
Daronte Jones - Commanders DC
The Commanders took a big leap of faith with new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones this offseason. While the real proof will be in the regular season, the buzz around his new scheme is difficult to ignore.
There is more creativity. Reports from training camp highlight the incredible variety of ways to generate pressure. The Commanders look more solid up front in a 3-4 base, and the major acquisitions made by general manager Adam Peters in free agency and the 2026 NFL Draft look tailor-made for this system shift.
Even though the offense is also starting to find its groove, the defensive efforts so far leave plenty of reasons for encouragement. After a season when Washington's defense was easily the league's worst, there is real optimism that they can become much more competitive with Jones leading the charge.
Staying healthy throughout the 2026 campaign is crucial. But if all of Washington's big hitters are available, Jones has the master plan for them to excel.
Loser No. 2
Laremy Tunsil - Commanders OT
The Commanders endured some torrid luck on the injury front last season. Just when it looked like the tide was turning, head coach Dan Quinn got another major concern to deal with.
Further tests revealed that five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil suffered a torn triceps that will likely require surgery. He's expected to miss a good part of the season, which is nothing short of devastating for an offense looking to make strides under new coordinator David Blough.
Tunsil is an All-Pro-caliber player. The Commanders didn't have much going for them last season, but their decision to trade for the blindside enforcer was nothing short of a masterstroke. Now, they'll be without him, and reports suggest that Brandon Coleman will be the man to fill the void.
This has the potential to be disastrous. Tunsil is an elite difference-maker, and unless Coleman improves quickly, his loss will be sorely felt.
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