Javontae Jean-Baptiste - Commanders DE/OLB
Adam Peters rightfully prioritized the edge-rushing unit this offseason. The Washington Commanders had no legitimate options or consistent production outside the injured Dorance Armstrong Jr. After a busy free agency and Joshua Josephs coming in via the 2026 NFL Draft, the options are now plentiful.
Competition for places is fierce. Everything must be earned, and it's a sink-or-swim situation for many. Those include Javontae Jean-Baptiste, who's been something of a forgotten figure in Washington after missing most of the 20025 campaign due to injury.
Jean-Baptiste has flashed explosiveness during defensive reps. He's done well to stick around as a seventh-round pick out of Notre Dame, but much more is needed this time around.
He's back on the practice field and ready to make up for some lost time. But with enhanced options alongside Jean-Baptiste on the defensive edge, it'll take a massive effort to cement his status in the coming months.
Ben Sinnott - Commanders TE
The curious case of Ben Sinnott will get its ultimate referendum this offseason. Washington was expecting the tight end to be further along by now, and Adam Peters was in no position to wait around with Zach Ertz out of contract.
The Commanders acted swiftly to sign Chig Okonkwo in free agency. He gives Washington's offense a dynamic force capable of creating yards after the catch. John Bates is an exceptional in-line blocking option, which means Sinnott could be set for a bit-part role once again.
Sinnott was seen as the heir apparent to Ertz when the Commanders took him No. 53 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. Opportunities have been limited, so a productive offseason is required to stand any chance of carving out a role for himself.
While the former Kansas State standout's place on the squad isn't under any real threat this summer, his long-term outlook in Washington is far from certain.
Percy Butler - Commanders S
The Commanders haven't done much to enhance their safety unit this offseason. They are confident that those who underperformed last season can improve their fortunes under new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones.
It's a leap of faith that could go either way. The Commanders are giving every safety option a chance to prove themselves, but Peters has enough salary-cap space to make additional reinforcements if he feels they are needed. What comes next is down to them.
Quan Martin and Will Harris will make the team along with free-agent signing Nick Cross, who'll provide a tone-setting force in the middle of the field. So will Jeremy Reaves. Much will depend on how many safeties the Commanders take through, but Percy Butler's status looks increasingly shaky without a strong offseason.
Butler has special-teams value, but so does Tyler Owens. That means his place on the team is far from guaranteed.
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