Drew Stevens - Commanders PK
After far more good days than bad this summer, it's now Drew Stevens' moment of truth. The Washington Commanders have to be sure that the undrafted rookie is up to the task in high-pressure situations. And his roster ambitions are firmly hanging in the balance during the team's preseason slate.
Stevens has made a notable impact in a relatively short timeframe. The Iowa product was almost flawless at training camp before one wayward practice. Fortunately, he bounced back emphatically, making all six of his efforts, including a long of 60 yards, in the final session before joint practice with the Miami Dolphins.
The Commanders gave Stevens a shot, and he seized it. He's done enough to make this competition with veteran Jake Moody real, and one could make a strong case that he's ahead right now.
At the same time, this momentum will count for nothing if Stevens cannot make his kicks count in the preseason. That will be the biggest litmus test of all.
Van Jefferson Jr. - Commanders WR
The battle lower down the wide receiver depth chart has become must-watch viewing for Commanders fans. Stefon Diggs' late arrival pushed everyone else a little further down the depth chart, making this a fine-margin situation for anyone looking to book their place on the 53-man roster.
Van Jefferson Jr. is among them. The experienced pass-catcher joined the Commanders in free agency this spring, but this came with no guarantees regarding his status on the squad. His career trajectory has fallen slightly in recent years, but it's been a strong summer for the Florida product in his quest to turn the tide.
Jefferson looks fast and explosive. He can get open, and whenever he is working with quarterback Jayden Daniels, the connection cannot be dismissed.
Much will depend on how many wideouts the Commanders take through. If it's six, Jefferson is fighting a losing battle. But if it's seven, he's got a lively chance.
Tyler Owens - Commanders DB
The Commanders still believe in Tyler Owens. While other defensive backs are seemingly falling by the wayside, new coordinator Daronte Jones is conjuring up ways to get him involved.
And at this stage of the summer, that matters.
Owens has always had the physical gifts. He's got elite-level athleticism that flashes almost constantly on special teams when he's given a chance. This is all about finding where he is best suited, and versatility might be his biggest strength right now.
The Texas Tech product can play safety, big nickel, and he's even got the size to potentially transition to the linebacker spot with a little extra development. It's not hard to see why Jones is intrigued by Owens, so expect to see a lot of the 2024 undrafted free agent during the preseason.
These games will make or break his outlook. Owens is on the roster bubble right now, but that could change quickly.
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