Jacory Croskey-Merritt - Commanders RB
There was a lot to like about Jacory Croskey-Merritt's rookie surge last season. The Washington Commanders thought they'd found something with the seventh-round pick, and he achieved more than anyone expected in Year 1 of his professional career.
Croskey-Merritt was probably relieved to see Jeremiyah Love go No. 3 overall to the Arizona Cardinals. However, complacency cannot become an issue.
The Commanders have strengthened their running back unit with three new faces this offseason. Rachaad White brings a previous chemistry with Jayden Daniels and proven production. Jerome Ford has also flashed throughout his NFL journey, and sixth-round pick Kaytron Allen has big ambitions.
That keeps urgency high for Croskey-Merritt. He won't be taking anything for granted, and he will still have an important role to play. Some improvements are needed, especially from a blocking standpoint. But if he wants to be the focal point, a strong offseason is critical.
Jake Moody - Commanders PK
The kicking position has been a constant source of frustration for years. Washington just cannot seem to find the right answers, and the team's big gamble on Matt Gay last offseason was another failed attempt to solve this ongoing issue.
Jake Moody came in from the Chicago Bears' practice squad. He performed well enough, but a poor end to proceedings meant his future was murky. Though the Commanders didn't tender him, the kicker did get another one-year deal for less money.
He's also got competition for the starting job.
The Commanders signed Drew Stevens to an undrafted free agent contract. It was originally a rookie minicamp invite before interest from elsewhere arrived. Striking quickly shows how much Washington wanted to keep him around, and head coach Dan Quinn revealed there will be a legitimate battle over the summer for the No. 1 spot.
Moody is the favorite right now, but he'll have to work hard to keep it that way.
Quan Martin - Commanders S
The Commanders were expected to make big changes to the safety position this offseason. Performance levels weren't anywhere near the level anticipated during the 2025 campaign, and it was one of the few units that managed to stay relatively injury-free.
Will Harris was the only one who missed considerable time. That was enough for the entire group to capitulate, and there was no more disappointing player in a season to forget than Quan Martin.
Experts and fans were projecting a breakout campaign from Martin. To say that didn't materialize would be an understatement, but the Commanders are not willing to throw in the towel just yet.
Nick Cross was signed in free agency, who'll walk straight into a starting role. Martin could get the other spot, but that is no guarantee. Harris, Jeremy Reaves, Percy Butler, and Tyler Owens will also fancy their chances, so the margin for error is gone.
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