Kaytron Allen - Commanders RB
An enormous amount of intrigue surrounded running back Kaytron Allen heading into the season. The sixth-round rookie came to the Washington Commanders with bold claims about making his presence felt early, but after a strong summer, his preseason performances left much to be desired.
Allen made the team and got some carries in the first two games. However, the Penn State product wasn't utilized at all in Washington's win over the Seattle Seahawks, which could mean he's in the doghouse.
The No. 187 selection clattered into right guard Sam Cosmi against the Dallas Cowboys, resulting in a concussion and throat injury that has forced the veteran to miss two games. It may have been accidental, but the Commanders sent a message regardless.
It'll be interesting to see what the future holds for Allen. But with Austin Ekeler now on board to go alongside Jacory Croskey-Merritt and Rachaad White, it's not looking especially promising.
Luke McCaffrey - Commanders WR
After two games as a healthy scratch, wide receiver Luke McCaffrey finally returned in Week 3. However, this was as a kick returner and nothing more.
If McCaffrey wants to see out his rookie contract in Washington, he will have to rely on this niche.
McCaffrey is a capable returner. He performed at a Pro Bowl level last season before breaking his collarbone, so he could wrestle these responsibilities from Jaylin Lane, who looked shaky at best over the opening two contests.
But in terms of activity on the wide receiver rotation, McCaffrey is lower down the pecking order than ever.
The Commanders haven't given McCaffrey any reps on offense so far, and that is likely to continue. Terry McLaurin, Stefon Diggs, and third-round rookie Antonio Williams are the top trio. Dyami Brown is getting a lot of work, and Treylon Burks is starting to get involved.
McCaffrey just has to be patient. But shining in the return game is critical.
Mike Sainristil - Commanders CB
This was probably the easiest player to add to the list, and for good reason.
The Commanders were expecting big things from Mike Sainristil this season. They were expecting the third-year cornerback to bounce back after a down year in 2025, and the presence of defensive coordinator Daronte Jones was enough to raise optimism.
Unfortunately, the same problems have surfaced. If anything, they are getting worse.
Washington cannot trust Sainristil. He is a liability, both positionally and in his coverage. The Michigan product is actively targeted as a weak link, which forced the Commanders to reduce his snaps significantly in Week 3 against the Seattle Seahawks.
The Commanders restricted Sainristil to nickel duties. He looked devoid of confidence again, and Dan Quinn acknowledged that this approach is best for now.
Sainristil is in an immensely precarious situation. And when Trey Amos returns from injured reserve, he could be phased out entirely.
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