Chig Okonkwo - Commanders TE
The Washington Commanders needed a different solution at the tight end position. Zach Ertz did an admirable job over his two years with the franchise, but he's aging. A torn ACL suffered in a brutal mid-air collision against the Minnesota Vikings all but ended his time with the squad.
General manager Adam Peters had a target in mind, signing Chig Okonkwo in free agency. He doesn't have the credentials Ertz brought to the table, but he's young and athletic with a chance to grow even further in a more profitable situation.
Okonkwo chose Washington after hearing David Blough's vision for him within the offense. OTAs provided a first glimpse, with the former Maryland standout showcasing his dynamism and explosiveness after the catch that could completely change the dynamic.
With questions remaining around the wide receiver unit behind Terry McLaurin, Okonkwo could become a featured presence in Washington's passing attack if the same trend continues over the summer.
Sonny Styles - Commanders LB
There is an enormous amount of buzz around Sonny Styles. The Commanders made no secret of their admiration for the linebacker during their comprehensive pre-draft assessments. They also didn't think there was much chance the Ohio State product would make it to No. 7 overall.
Styles slipped through the cracks, and the Commanders took advantage. Based on early reports, the rookie is making some serious waves.
It's hard not to be impressed by Styles. He carries himself well. He is physically imposing and supremely athletic. He's a willing learner and evolving as a leader. The praise has been glowing so far, with coaches and teammates lauding his smooth transition and his potential within Daronte Jones' system.
The Commanders are making Styles earn it, but it won't be much longer before he becomes the focal point. Washington believes he can be a defensive linchpin to build around for the next decade. They might be right.
Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB
Nothing much went right for Jayden Daniels last season. The quarterback was riding on the crest of a wave after a rookie campaign for the ages. Unfortunately, injuries brought this hype crashing back down to earth.
Daniels featured in seven games. He completed four. A knee sprain, low-grade hamstring strain, and a dislocated elbow proved too much to overcome. Now, questions about his durability have surfaced, and the signal-caller has heard them all.
With a new scheme and renewed focus, Daniels is leading from the front. He looked poised, comfortable with the system implemented by offensive coordinator David Blough, and did everything with the intent that everyone was following along.
More importantly, Daniels is looking good under center. Blough is bringing more pro-style concepts, which should greatly benefit the former LSU star. It's early days, but this is an encouraging sign as the No. 2 pick in 2024 looks to silence his doubters.
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