Treylon Burks - Commanders WR
Noah Brown's luckless run on the injury front this season continued in Week 15 against the New York Giants. It was only his second game back from a lengthy absence, but he went to injured reserve once again with a hip issue that all but ends his time with the Washington Commanders.
This is a devastating blow for Brown. However, there is no excuse for the coaching staff not to use this setback as an opportunity to see what Treylon Burks can do from a prominent offensive role.
Burks joined the Commanders after things fizzled out with the Tennessee Titans. The AFC South put too much on the wideout's shoulders that he wasn't ready for. He's starting to build back confidence, as evidenced by his stunning touchdown catch on Sunday Night Football against the Denver Broncos.
At 25 years old, there is still long-term upside attached to Burks. A strong end to the campaign will guarantee an extended stay in 2026.
Jalyn Holmes - Commanders DL
The Commanders' defensive front looks set for a massive overhaul this offseason. They've been unable to stop the run effectively or consistently generate pressure. Things have improved slightly in recent weeks, but this unit still needs more explosiveness and dynamism going forward.
What that means for those currently around is anyone's guess. Aside from Javon Kinlaw and 2024 second-round pick Johnny Newton, nobody is guaranteed to come back. Jalyn Holmes is among those looking to shine down the stretch in pursuit of another deal from the organization.
Holmes has drifted on and off the team once again this season. The 2018 fourth-round pick out of Ohio State has accumulated 34.2 percent of the team's defensive snaps in the eight games he's been active, logging 15 tackles and one quarterback hit. Staying active on game days is the tricky part, but it could be relatively straightforward with the team missing some influential figures due to injury.
Chris Rodriguez Jr. - Commanders RB
If the Commanders want to keep running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. in 2026, they hold all the cards. The 2023 sixth-round pick is a restricted free agent, meaning they could offer a tender or match any offer he receives from elsewhere. That seems pretty likely heading into the final three games.
However, if Rodriguez wants to enhance his chances of being Washington's lead-back option next season and potentially beyond, he needs to leave no doubt in the coming weeks.
It's been another rollercoaster campaign for Rodriguez. He made the roster but was initially an afterthought. The coaching staff was reluctant to involve him, but the former Kentucky star has gradually asserted himself in the second half of 2025.
Missing last weekend's win over the New York Giants derailed his momentum at the worst possible time. Rodriguez is now back at practice, but the pressure is on to finish on a high note to cement his importance next year.