Antonio Williams - Commanders WR
The Washington Commanders' wide receiver room looks strong. There are some proven performers and also some reclamation projects who could improve within David Blough's system if everything goes well.
There is also Antonio Williams.
The third-round rookie wideout was projected as a first-rounder before a disappointing final college campaign with the Clemson Tigers. Williams has the talent, and the Commanders believe there is something that could be a major asset.
Based on the impression made over the summer, he's got a chance to feature as part of a trio with Terry McLaurin and Stefon Diggs.
Williams is a slick route runner who knows how to separate. He's got assured hands, can make things happen after the catch, and now has a chip on his shoulder after being overlooked until No. 71 overall in the draft.
McLaurin and Diggs will lead the charge. But don't be surprised if Williams becomes a surprise most don't see coming.
Nick Cross - Commanders S
The Commanders' safety unit could perform above expectations this season. Defensive coordinator Daronte Jones had this unit humming over the summer, and when Will Harris was unable to keep up, general manager Adam Peters cut the veteran loose.
Washington didn't do much to strengthen the group, either. There was one notable arrival, with Nick Cross coming into the fold on a pretty team-friendly contract in free agency.
Cross brings a tone-setting presence that's hard not to love. He can roam in the box, using his instincts to make things happen. He communicates effectively, boasting the explosiveness and physicality that looks tailor-made for Jones' schematic concepts.
There was a lot to like about Cross' intentions at training camp. He set the tempo for others to follow, and everyone willingly followed his lead in the secondary. While there are some coverage deficiencies that may be exposed, he should be well insulated in Jones' 3-4 base system.
Josh Conerly Jr. - Commanders OT
Losing five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil was a body blow. The elite performer suffered a triceps tear during training camp and could miss the entire 2026 campaign. Not exactly ideal, but the offensive line must dig deep to provide quarterback Jayden Daniels with the protection required to flourish.
This is a big year for right tackle Josh Conerly Jr.
He recovered well from his early rookie baptism of fire to come on strong over the second half of 2025. Conerly showed up in tremendous shape this offseason, working hard away from the team while also spending as much time as he could learning from Tunsil.
Conerly has all the physical attributes needed to become a franchise cornerstone. The 2025 first-round pick out of Oregon must improve his play strength and solidify his base, but he's well on track to make the desired improvements in Year 2.
Tunsil won't be around, but Conerly has the potential to be a star.
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