Chris Rodriguez Jr. - Commanders RB
The Washington Commanders' running back room was tweaked rather than gutted this offseason. Adam Peters kept faith with the options who contributed to the cause in 2024. However, the arrival of seventh-round pick Jacory Croskey-Merritt could ruffle some feathers.
Croskey-Merritt is looking to make his way onto the offensive rotation. He's not come to accept anything less despite his lowly draft status. And based on the encouraging impression he made in early workouts, the rookie looks more than capable of achieving this objective.
That's going to make things more difficult for Chris Rodriguez Jr. to impose himself. The former sixth-round selection displayed improved ball-carrying ability when called upon last season. Opportunities were limited, but his production warranted another look.
Rodriguez is entering Year 3 of his professional career. Things don't look especially promising, but there's a good chance he gets signed back onto the practice squad if he doesn't do enough to make the 53-man roster initially.
Clelin Ferrell - Commanders DE
Many fans were surprised to see Clelin Ferrell get another deal from the Commanders this offseason. The defensive end failed to shine in a starting role and was gradually phased out as the campaign wore on. That doesn't bode well for his future outlook, but those in power are willing to give him another shot this summer.
Ferrell won't ever meet the lofty heights expected of a top-five draft pick. The Las Vegas Raiders overplayed their hand by taking the edge threat so high. There's just something missing from a consistency standpoint, despite the odd flashes of promise.
The former Clemson standout faces a fight for his place this time around. Washington added Deatrich Wise Jr., who boasts similar traits, in free agency. They also secured the services of Von Miller, who is aging but comes with glittering previous credentials.
Unless Ferrell demonstrates the necessary improvements, he'll be looking for alternative employment after final cuts.
Michael Gallup - Commanders WR
Michael Gallup believes he's still got a lot of good football left after ending his one-year retirement. The Commanders are giving him the chance to restart his NFL career, but his roster spot is not secure by any stretch of the imagination.
Gallup has a previous connection to Dan Quinn, which smoothed his early transition. The early signs were encouraging, but the wide receiver suffered a frustrating hamstring strain that prevented him from participating in Washington's mandatory minicamp.
That raised concerns about Gallup's durability. It also allowed others to shine in his absence, which raises the stakes considerably heading into training camp.
A monumental effort is needed from Gallup to confirm his place on the 53-man roster. Five of the wide receiver spots seem locked in right now. That leaves one or potentially two for the rest, so maximizing every target and staying healthy is the only way to enhance his claims.