Nick Cross - Commanders S
Much like the situation with veteran cornerback Amik Robertson, the Washington Commanders gave themselves an out with safety Nick Cross's contract if he cannot perform at the expected level. This is smart business from general manager Adam Peters, and it gives the player plenty of incentive to capitalize on his chance with the organization.
Cross was an understated addition to the ranks in free agency. It didn't generate many headlines, but the benefits could be substantial. And given the early impression he's made within Daronte Jones' defensive system, a breakout campaign could be in his immediate future.
The Commanders will use Cross as the tone-setting enforcer, perhaps playing closer to the line of scrimmage. He's one of the league's most accomplished safeties against the run. And even though he has some coverage flaws, Jones' scheme should minimize his risk of being exposed.
It's a big year for Cross. And it would be a big surprise if he fell flat.
Nick Allegretti - Commanders OL
Losing five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil is bad enough for the Commanders' offensive line. However, they are also dealing with real doubts at center, which will only further distress fans.
Nick Allegretti is projected to start, but he missed almost the entire summer after suffering a calf strain on the opening day of training camp. The Illinois product is now back at practice and eager to make up for some lost time. Even so, missing vital reps at a new position could have a detrimental impact on his chances.
The Commanders believed in Allegretti enough to give him an early extension this offseason. Most fans and analysts thought he would be cut after an underwhelming first two years in Washington, but Adam Peters had other ideas. It's a massive confidence boost, but what comes next matters even more.
If Allegretti fluffs his lines, it might be his last season in Washington. Though there isn't much financial incentive to remove him from the equation unless it's with a post-June 1 designation.
Ben Sinnott - Commanders TE
As previously mentioned, the Commanders are expecting more from tight end Ben Sinnott this season. The 2024 second-round pick has taken some subtle swipes at previous offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury when probed about his lack of usage since being drafted, but it's now or never.
Even though the Commanders have Chig Okonkwo and John Bates leading the charge in their tight end room, Sinnott could also feature more prominently.
David Blough has used him in multiple ways throughout the summer, suggesting the Kansas State product might get more involvement. But if Sinnott doesn't deliver, Adam Peters could very easily cut this experiment short with one year remaining on his rookie deal.
Sinnott was drafted No. 53 overall to potentially be the long-term answer. That hasn't happened yet, and Okonkwo's arrival may mean it never comes to fruition. However, he could still serve as a rotational option in a scheme that will suit him much more than Kingsbury's ever did.
If not, it won't cost the Commanders much to move on from Sinnott.
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