Josh Conerly Jr. - Commanders OT
There were a few raised eyebrows when the Washington Commanders took Josh Conerly Jr. at No. 29 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. He had to endure a real baptism of fire over the first few weeks of his rookie campaign, but there was a lot to like about his performance levels over the second half of the year.
Conerly has been working exceptionally hard away from the team. Photos from Washington's voluntary workout program show the second-year pro looking more defined and in shape. It was instantly noticed by fans, which only raised optimism about what could potentially be in store as an NFL sophomore.
The former Oregon standout should get a lot of good work over the summer. Washington's edge rushing unit is much improved, which should test Conerly's skills throughout. As the old saying goes, iron sharpens iron, and if the right tackle can hold his own, a massive campaign could await.
Kaytron Allen - Commanders RB
The Commanders' running back dynamic is an interesting one for fans to monitor over the coming months. Washington signed several fresh faces to bolster competition alongside Jacory Croskey-Merritt and Jeremy McNichols. Most envisage a committee approach, but there is just no telling for sure right now.
One of the more intriguing additions is Kaytron Allen. The powerful back was highly productive during his time at Penn State. While he's not a burner or anything close, his physical ability to gain hard yards is something the Commanders lost when Chris Rodriguez Jr. left for the Jacksonville Jaguars in free agency.
Allen is also ambitious. He's already laid down the gauntlet to his new teammates, whom he believes will have to improve to match the work ethic he'll bring. The sixth-round pick caught the eye at Washington's rookie minicamp, and he'll be aiming for the same with everyone together at OTAs.
Don't bet against it, either.
Odafe Oweh - Commanders OLB
The Commanders have high expectations for Odafe Oweh. After the dynamic edge rusher got a $96 million contract in free agency, fans are expecting the same.
Washington had to get better on the defensive edge last season. The pass rush was anemic, and opposing quarterbacks had all the time they needed to get the ball downfield. Oweh is here to change all that, and even though he's only been a situational rusher throughout his career, much more will be demanded now.
Oweh has the physical tools. He has the length, size, athleticism, and burst to the point of contact that Washington sorely lacked in 2025, especially after Dorance Armstrong Jr. went down. Adam Peters recognized this and reacted accordingly, signing three prominent veterans and spending a Day 3 draft pick on Joshua Josephs.
That'll help, but Oweh will set the tone. And an imposing impact on OTAs would be a good place to start.
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