Winner No. 4
Kaytron Allen - Commanders RB
The Washington Commanders' running back dynamic is starting to take shape. Jacory Croskey-Merritt and free-agent signing Rachaad White will lead the way, but there are growing signs that sixth-round rookie Kaytron Allen could also be in line for his fair share of carries.
When things get more physical, Allen stands out. He's been among the real standout performers over padded practices, with his aggression and contact balance offering something a little different in the backfield. It's still early days, but Penn State's all-time leading rusher is making himself noticed.
It would be wise for the Commanders to get some preseason touches into Allen, starting this Friday against the Miami Dolphins. This will give the first-year pro some valuable experience. And if he performs well, that might be all Washington needs to get him involved during the regular season.
Allen is staking a strong claim for involvement. And at this time of year, momentum is everything.
Loser No. 3
Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB
Before we start, this has nothing to do with any concerning performances. Jayden Daniels has reportedly looked comfortable and convincing over the second week of training camp, which is a big positive heading into a potential bounce-back campaign.
Daniels lands here because he lost his franchise left tackle.
As mentioned previously, Laremy Tunsil will be out for a significant part of the 2026 campaign with a torn triceps. Depending on the severity and how the surgery goes, he may even miss the entire campaign. It's a body blow, and Daniels could be the biggest loser.
The Commanders are reportedly moving forward with Brandon Coleman on the blindside. They've won with him on the edge before, but if there was one player above all else Daniels couldn't afford to be without, it's Tunsil.
Daniels needs everything to go well in Year 3. Not having one of the league's most prolific offensive tackles to lean on is detrimental.
How detrimental? We won't know until the real action begins.
Winner No. 5
Stefon Diggs - Commanders WR
After months of speculation and countless pleas, the Commanders finally gave wide receiver Stefon Diggs his homecoming wish. And the veteran pass-catcher instantly changed the mood upon joining the franchise.
Diggs can get open. He is an elite route runner who knows how to come up with the goods in big moments. He instantly embraced the complementary role alongside Terry McLaurin, and though the Commanders are bringing him along gradually, there was a lot to like about his early integration.
The former Maryland playmaker looks sharp. The hard work he's put in before getting a new opportunity has paid off, and Diggs already looks like someone who can make a significant difference within David Blough's blocking concepts.
Acquiring Diggs on a one-year deal that could be worth up to $12 million was tremendous business. He had interest from elsewhere, but joining the Commanders was always his preferred option.
And hopefully, this becomes another massive asset for Jayden Daniels to depend upon.
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