Joshua Josephs - Commanders OLB
This has been a theme all summer. And while the debate for training camp MVP is still ongoing, rookie edge rusher Joshua Josephs is no doubt among the frontrunners.
The Washington Commanders sat out their stud pass-rushing pair of Odafe Oweh and K'Lavon Chaisson, who are both dealing with slight injury issues. That gave Josephs plenty of opportunities to run with the first-team defense, and based on reports, the former Tennessee standout took full advantage.
Josephs was all over the field. He was a constant menace flying off the edge, showcasing his explosiveness and length to great effect. The first-year pro is becoming more disciplined against the run, and his ability when dropping back into coverage continues to be a pleasant surprise.
While the likes of Oweh, Chaisson, and Dorance Armstrong Jr. will gain the lion's share of edge rushing snaps, Josephs is doing more than enough to get noticed. He remains a work in progress, but the positive signs are growing with each passing practice.
The Commanders believe they have a steal in Josephs, who was projected as a Day 2 pick by some draft analysts but slid all the way to No. 147 overall. Looking at his phenomenal efforts this summer, it's not hard to see why.
Jacoby Jones - Commanders WR
The wide receiver unit will come down to the numbers game. Washington is well-stocked with a nice blend of youth and experience in the room, and with Stefon Diggs now joining Terry McLaurin to be the Commanders' dynamic duo, all signs are pointing up.
There are also plenty of young hopefuls seeking greater involvement. Most have flashed over the summer, which only makes the decisions more difficult the further down the depth chart you go. It'll be fascinating to examine the overall outcomes, but it's a nice problem for the Commanders to have.
Though Jacoby Jones might be at the bottom, the wideout continues to make plays whenever his number is called.
Jacoby Jones has made so many CRAZY catches in training camp lol
— Josh Taylor (@JoshTaylorFB) August 18, 2026
Jones spent last season on the practice squad. He featured once in the regular season, bringing in his only target for 25 receiving yards. This experience has served him well, and even though his roster hopes remain slim, the number of big catches he's made throughout camp and the preseason won't go unnoticed.
Even if Jones doesn't quite do enough to make the 53-man roster, he's a lock to make the practice squad if he clears waivers. But if he excels over Washington's two remaining warm-up games, that might get the attention of other clubs looking for receiver assistance.
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