Jonathan Allen - Commanders DT
Jonathan Allen worked exceptionally hard to get back for the playoffs. He got two games to get his feet wet in the regular season after so long away from the gridiron. The time to step up has officially arrived.
Allen's production since returning to the rotation represents a mixed bag. Not entirely unexpected when one considers his long absence with a torn pectoral and the form displayed earlier in the campaign, but the Commanders need more from the Pro Bowl-caliber performer.
This is a time for big players to stand up and be counted. Allen is a respected leader in the locker room and is going to be relied upon heavily to set the tone. That means raising urgency and providing a sounder footing against the run.
It's an area of weakness for the Washington Commanders. That might sound strange with so many high-end draft picks on the defensive line interior, but it's a fact. This is going to be trench warfare versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and they must answer the call.
The Buccaneers are among the league's most efficient rushing attacks. Rookie sensation Bucky Irving is a formidable proposition to overcome. Rachaad White provides an explosive complimentary piece capable of causing damage if afforded enough space. Washington cannot let this duo dictate the tempo.
Allen must be at the heart of it. Something that would improve his chances of seeing out the final year of his deal along the way.
Brian Robinson Jr. - Commanders RB
Brian Robinson Jr. started the season off tremendously well. The running back's powerful, explosive playing style complimented the finesse of Jayden Daniels to form a productive backfield tandem. That's dipped slightly over the second half of 2024.
The Commanders' ground game is non-existent without the quarterbacks carving up yards. Robinson's injury was a significant bump in the road and he hasn't been the same since. His influence is waning at the worst possible time.
Kliff Kingsbury abandoned giving his running backs the football almost completely in Week 18 at the Dallas Cowboys. The Commanders have gotten away with it during their impressive end to the campaign. That won't be the case when the margins get finer in the postseason.
Washington needs to establish a strong rushing attack at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Easier said than done versus stud nose tackle Vita Vea, impressive defensive lineman Calijah Kancey, and veteran linebacker Lavonte David among others, but the Commanders have to try.
Robinson's role will be integral. He needs to provide a punishing presence that keeps Tampa Bay's defense honest and takes some heat off Daniels with the primetime spotlight glaring. Anything less could see general manager Adam Peters examine alternatives during the offseason.