Kaytron Allen - Commanders RB
The Washington Commanders have a new-look running back room in 2026. Offensive coordinator David Blough made no secret of his desire for a shake-up. General manager Adam Peters duly delivered, increasing urgency and raising competition for places.
It seems as if the Commanders will move forward with a committee approach. Players are currently jostling for position, and it became quickly apparent that Kaytron Allen isn't coming for a bit-part role.
Allen set out his stall immediately. The sixth-round rookie wants to establish himself, push his teammates, and leave no doubt regarding his long-term importance to the team's plans. He also wants to shift the pre-draft narrative to focus on him as a power option and nothing more.
It's been an encouraging start for Allen. Challenges will get tougher over the summer, but the former Penn State standout now has a solid foundation from which to build even more momentum.
Leo Chenal - Commanders LB
As previously mentioned, the Commanders gave the linebacking corps a much-needed injection of youth and dynamism this offseason. It was a weak link that got exposed last season, especially when Frannkie Luvu was forced to spend more time on the edge. Things look a lot more promising now.
While Sonny Styles has generated the headlines as a first-round pick, there is a growing belief that big things could also be coming from Leo Chenal. He was a high-priority signing in free agency, stemming from a productive stint with the Kansas City Chiefs that came with two Super Bowl triumphs.
Chenal's athleticism is absolutely off the charts. He flies around the field with relentless intent, taking impressive angles to shut down ball-carriers quickly. It'll be interesting to see what defensive coordinator Daronte Jones has planned for him, but he looks more than ready for increased responsibilities within his aggressive system.
Odafe Oweh - Commanders DE/OLB
The Commanders needed to enhance their pass-rush this offseason. Adam Peters focused on other matters during his second recruitment period in 2024, and things quickly unraveled. Thankfully, the front office leader shifted this stance and turned over every stone to find the upgrades needed.
There was also a big splash in the form of Odafe Oweh.
He was widely regarded as one of the best edge defenders available, and the Commanders stuck with conviction to get him on board. It was a four-year, $96 million deal with a $26 million signing bonus and $68 million in guaranteed money. Most judged this sum to be an overpayment, but that's true of almost everyone at the top end of the market.
Oweh's price tag dictates a three-down role. That's a journey into the unknown of sorts, but his size, length, and explosiveness could be highly impactful. And he's already setting the table for a strong campaign.
Add us as a preferred source on Google