Training camp is always an anxious time. Players are fighting for roster spots and, in some cases, their NFL futures. But for fans, they are just hoping their key men manage to stay clear of any unfortunate injury worries before the new campaign.
The Washington Commanders were given a scare when Nick Allegretti, who is widely projected to start at center this season, left the first day of camp and did not return. The team released no information afterward, but one insider gave a relatively positive update that should put fans at ease.
According to Ben Standig of The Virginian-Pilot, the issue with Allegretti isn't considered serious. Obviously, we'll find out more during head coach Dan Quinn's next media availability on Day 2, but the reporter didn't get the sense this would end up being a major concern for the Commanders.
C Nick Allegretti exited practice early as @JohnDoranTV tweeted, with an undisclosed injury. Dan Quinn spoke before practice, so we’ll have to wait until tomorrow for more details, but my initial understanding is that it’s nothing serious.
— Ben Standig (@BenStandig) July 29, 2026
Commanders fans will be hoping insider report on Nick Allegretti is accurate
As Standig said, Quinn will likely tell fans more. But if his report is accurate and this is a narrow escape for Allegretti and Washington, it represents the best possible news imaginable.
The Commanders took a massive risk by parting ways with Biadasz. But they have complete faith in Allegretti to make an impact, even giving him a contract extension early this offseason.
That was a statement of intent, and the early signs this offseason suggest he can at least man the spot competently on an offensive line that could be an area of strength for David Blough to depend on.
It's also why fans were particularly concerned when news broke that Allegretti had departed the practice field with trainers.
He's gone from a backup interior lineman to a starter Washington cannot afford to lose. They did spend a sixth-round pick on Matt Gulbin, but he might be more of a development project rather than someone who can come into the lineup immediately.
If the news is positive, that's a big boost. But it just shows how precarious this situation is.
The Commanders seem content with what they have in front of quarterback Jayden Daniels. Allegretti doesn't have much experience at center, but it's where the Illinois product believes he is most comfortable. And his exceptional communication at the line of scrimmage gives him a fighting chance.
Missing any practices wouldn't be ideal, but time is on the Commanders' side for now. They have the luxury of being cautious with any recovering players or those who suffer knocks at camp. Being ready for Week 1 against the Philadelphia Eagles is the primary goal, and that will be the case with Allegretti as well.
Standing believes it's not much to worry about. If that proves to be the case, the entire fan base can exhale.
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