Head coach Dan Quinn provided a positive update on projected starting center Nick Allegretti. The veteran was experiencing calf tightness as he works his way back from a strain, but the imaging came back clear.
That is a positive for the Washington Commanders. However, it only magnifies the precariousness of this situation.
And it could lead general manager Adam Peters to rethink his original strategy.
Commanders have a problem at center, and Adam Peters must rethink his strategy
The Commanders have placed a lot of faith in Allegretti this offseason. Releasing Tyler Biadasz and giving the Illinois product an extension ahead of time was proof positive of that, but missing so many reps over the summer could complicate matters.
Washington might just stand pat for the moment. But if Allegretti continues to show signs of frailty, the Commanders aren't exactly blessed with viable backup options who can fill the void. That's why seeking outside help cannot be completely dismissed.
Options are slim on the current veteran pool. Perhaps an intriguing option will become available on the waiver wire after final cuts, but there is just no telling for sure.
Of course, if Peters was feeling particularly bold, maybe examining a potential trade option is something to consider. And in this scenario, maybe calling the Las Vegas Raiders to see about the availability of Jackson Powers-Johnson wouldn't be the worst idea in the world.
Powers-Johnson was a standout center at Oregon before the Raiders took him at No. 44 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. His production has been solid if unspectacular over the last two seasons, but it was not enough for Las Vegas to turn down the chance of signing stud free agent Tyler Linderbaum.
Jackson Powers-Johnson would be a risky trade option for the Commanders
The Commanders were also intent on signing Linderbaum but were unwilling to match what Las Vegas was offering. Powers-Jones has now moved to right guard, so a return to the center spot would no doubt be tempting.
There is one big problem.
Power Johnson's 2025 campaign ended after just seven games due to an ankle injury. He also left training camp practice early this week and didn't feature in Las Vegas' preseason game against the Houston Texans. If this jeopardizes his chances of being healthy to start the new campaign, this instantly becomes a non-starter for Washington.
But if Powers-Johnson's absence is a precautionary measure, it becomes much more feasible.
The Commanders cannot afford the center position to become a weak link. They will already be without five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil for most, if not all, of the 2026 campaign with a torn triceps, so any more instability will have major ramifications.
Peters will be ready to strike if he isn't satisfied. The front-office supremo doesn't have a reputation for sitting on his hands. If anything, it's the opposite, but there are already dubious glances being directed at the Commanders for the way they've handled things at center this offseason.
Powers-Johnson was an award-winning center in college. If he can stay healthy, this would be an intriguing addition to the ranks. Whether it's something the Commanders seriously contemplate is another matter.
It's just a thought. But nothing should be off the table.
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