Javontae Jean-Baptiste - Commanders DE/OLB
The Washington Commanders rightfully gave the edge-rushing room the priority it deserved this offseason. General manager Adam Peters spared no expense, making three notable additions via free agency and spending a fifth-round pick on Joshua Josephs, who brings immediate rotational upside.
Odafe Oweh and K'Lavon Chaisson should have integral roles. Charles Omenihu brings versatility and experience to the ranks. Dorance Armstrong Jr. is making encouraging progress from a serious knee injury that abruptly ended his 2025 breakout, so things are looking up.
Where that leaves others vying for playing time remains to be seen. Javontae Jean-Baptiste is among those facing an uncertain future, and he is also looking to make up for some lost time after his second NFL season ended after just three games.
The former Notre Dame standout has flashed explosiveness and bend as a pass rusher in limited playing time. Much more will be needed to stake a claim after Peters' drastic changes on the defensive edge.
Brandon Coleman - Commanders OL
The Commanders re-signed Chris Paul after the free-agent market was not as robust as many expected for the interior offensive lineman. That was a big boost, especially at the money involved, but he is not exempt from proving himself all over again.
Based on reports emanating from OTAs, the Commanders are also giving Brandon Coleman plenty of reps with the first-string offensive line at left guard. The 2024 third-round pick fell by the wayside last season, benched just two games into the campaign. That was a bitter blow, but Washington's coaching staff is giving him the benefit of the doubt.
All signs point to a legitimate battle between Coleman and Paul for the starting spot over the summer. The former TCU star may be playing catch-up, but the Commanders are giving him a fighting chance. The margins are razor-thin, so nothing but high performance and supreme commitment will do.
Tyler Owens - Commanders DB
An interesting dynamic is brewing in Washington's defensive secondary. New coordinator Daronte Jones is emphasizing explosiveness, aggression, and versatility. He is preaching the importance of discipline and athleticism, which Tyler Owens has in abundance.
Owens is a curious case. The 2024 undrafted free agent rose impressively to make the 53-man roster, but he's been nothing more than a special-teams asset ever since. This makes him something of an unknown quantity, but there are growing signs that Jones could have a bigger role in mind for the Texas Tech product.
According to reports from OTAs, the Commanders are experimenting with Owens and Quan Martin in the nickel. This could benefit both greatly, so it'll be interesting to see if the same approach continues when preparations for the new season gradually intensify.
Owens has the tools, but putting them all together has been problematic so far. However, if anyone can help the player fulfill his obvious potential, it's Jones.
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