Chris Paul - Commanders OL
The Washington Commanders got some fantastic returns from Chris Paul when hope was fading rapidly last season. But when the market wasn't hot for him in free agency, the interior offensive lineman came back on a one-year deal.
Paul earned the starting left guard spot after two games in 2025 and never relinquished it. He emerged as an outstanding pass-blocker, and while there is work to be done as a run blocker, the former Tulsa star was well worth another go-around.
Washington is not making things easy for Paul. He is in a legitimate competition for the left guard spot with Brandon Coleman, whom he replaced in the lineup last season. It appears too close to call right now, according to reports, but the veteran remains the tentative frontrunner heading into training camp.
This sort of precarious situation is not unusual for Paul. But his long-term status in Washington beyond 2026 could legitimately go either way.
Daron Payne - Commanders DL
There was an enormous amount of speculation around Daron Payne's future when the offseason began. The defensive lineman was touted as a potential cut or trade candidate by those outside the building. That was not an opinion shared by Adam Peters.
Washington's front-office leader quickly shut down the rumors, stating that Payne would be part of the team's plans next season. However, there would be no new deal for the Alabama product beforehand, making this a contract year for the player.
The last time Payne entered a similar situation, he made the Pro Bowl with 11.5 sacks. While expecting the same again is unrealistic, he has the athletic traits to thrive in Daronte Jones' 3-4 base front.
Payne's approach to early offseason workouts suggests that a dominant campaign could be in the offing. If not, then the Commanders could trade him before the deadline or let him walk for a compensatory draft pick when free agency hits.
Marcus Mariota - Commanders QB
Marcus Mariota is widely regarded as one of the league's best backup quarterbacks. The Commanders won't get very far if Jayden Daniels cannot stay healthy, but they have an experienced presence behind him who could fill the void.
Mariota's powers are declining, as evidenced by last season's efforts. He also missed time late in the season through injury, but the Commanders saw enough to give him another one-year commitment. But with Washington also drafting Athan Kaliakmanis in the seventh round, head coach Dan Quinn now has a viable development project who could become a potential understudy.
Daniels no longer needs a veteran guide. This is Year 3 for the signal-caller, and he's already a franchise cornerstone. Mariota will serve a purpose this season, but if Kaliakmanis makes encouraging progress toward making the team and increases confidence in his capabilities, he could go through as the QB2 from 2027 onward.
That, unfortunately for Mariota, would come at his expense.
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