Skip to main content

7 Commanders who could turn training camp into their personal launchpad

Get your popcorn ready.
Washington Commanders wide receiver Antonio Williams
Washington Commanders wide receiver Antonio Williams | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
3 of 3

Jaylin Lane - Commanders WR

As previously mentioned, the Washington Commanders are still reportedly looking for receiver help before the season. ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler also hinted that Adam Peters is looking for more speed, which would give the offense an entirely different dynamic.

That would help, but the Commanders may have an answer for that already on the roster.

Jaylin Lane has 4.34 speed in the 40-yard dash. The flashes he displayed as a punt returner as a rookie showcased this to full effect. While the wide receiver hasn't impacted the offense much yet, David Blough could have the innovative ideas to get him more involved in Year 2 of his professional career.

Lane has a chance to break out. He's gone relatively overlooked compared to the new signings, the return of Terry McLaurin, and the constant rumors about another arrival, but the Commanders could have a surprise on their hands if he demonstrates better concentration and sharper route running this summer.

Leo Chenal - Commanders LB

While Leo Chenal is not a fledgling hopeful looking for a place on the team, he's a potential camp standout for a different reason. After spending the first four years of his career as a rotational presence and special-teams ace with the Kansas City Chiefs, he now looks set for a more integral role within Washington's defensive concepts under Daronte Jones.

This system emphasizes versatility and athleticism. Chenal has these traits in abundance, and his impressive production when called upon in Kansas City suggests he is more than ready for increased responsibilities.

Chenal has the size and instinctiveness needed to make a considerable difference. He's got the speed to reach the contact point quickly, is an effective blitzer, and leaves his mark with every tackle. If Sonny Styles and Frankie Luvu also reach their 2026 ceiling, this could be among the league's most prolific linebacker trios.

Kaytron Allen - Commanders RB

Washington's running back room has strength in depth. The dynamic is still shaking out, but having so many options capable of making an impact is not a bad thing for offensive coordinator David Blough to call upon.

It seems like Jacory Croskey-Merritt and free-agent signing Rachaad White will lead the charge within a committee approach. They have the dynamism and quickness needed to excel, but even that might not be enough. Neither is the most physical in between the tackles, which is where sixth-round rookie Kaytron Allen could potentially carve out a role for himself.

Allen emerged as Penn State's all-time leading rusher, but he was never discussed among the top-level running backs in the 2026 class. The Commanders took a chance on him, and he's working hard to repay their faith. He's also promising fireworks when the pads go on at camp, so this is a player that fans should be monitoring extremely closely.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Loading recommendations... Please wait while we load personalized content recommendations