The Washington Commanders are gearing up for their three-day mandatory minicamp. Tempo is expected to rise, although it was already high at organized team activities. And there is a lot of pressure on players to raise their performances accordingly.
Head coach Dan Quinn needs to alleviate growing pressure on his shoulders. General manager Adam Peters did his part by strengthening the roster impressively through free agency and the draft. There is also plenty of available cash for additional reinforcements if they're required, which only raises the stakes further for those aiming to carve out roles for themselves.
Minicamp is the final chance they will have to catch the eye before the pre-training camp break. Everything must be earned this time around as the Commanders move away from the complacency that blighted their preparations in 2025. The response has been positive, but it's vital that this new positivity is built upon with increased competition for places.
That will inevitably impact some more than others. With this in mind, here are seven Commanders players who must avoid a quiet minicamp in pursuit of improving their claims for roster spots or places in the starting lineup next season.
Washington Commanders players who cannot afford a quiet 2026 mandatory minicamp
Ben Sinnott - Commanders TE
The Washington Commanders made a big splash in free agency with the signing of tight end Chig Okonkwo. This was essential with veteran Pro Bowler Zach Ertz no longer around, and the new addition is expected to add more dynamism and after-the-catch prowess to the passing attack if everything goes well.
John Bates is among the best blocking tight ends anywhere in the league. There is also the presence of Ben Sinnott to factor into the equation, though his aspirations seem a little more precarious entering Year 3 of his time with the club.
Sinnott was selected at No. 53 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. The Commanders thought he could become the heir apparent to Ertz, but he hasn't come close to meeting these expectations as yet. All hope is not lost, and the system being installed by offensive coordinator David Blough could see more opportunities come his way.
Nicki Jhabvalka of The Athletic is among those who believe Sinnott's role could expand as the Commanders rely more on the tight-end spot. The Kansas State product has a lot to prove before this scenario becomes reality, so he must raise confidence in his capabilities at Washington's mandatory minicamp and all through the summer.
Nothing else will do.
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