Ben Sinnott - Commanders TE
There was cautious optimism around what Ben Sinnott could potentially contribute as a rookie. As it turned out, the tight end wasn't needed all that much.
Zach Ertz's career renaissance and John Bates' emergence into one of the league's most dominant blockers at the tight end spot left Sinnott on the proverbial fringes. He flashed as a blocker and gained one touchdown from five targets, all of which he successfully secured. But with the veteran duo both getting extensions this offseason, it remains to be seen what the Kansas State product's role will be.
Sinnott was listed as the third tight end behind Ertz and Bates once again. He'll be a key factor on special teams, but the Commanders didn't draft him in the second round for that. They want him to emerge as a well-rounded option capable of being a long-term piece once Ertz retires.
The jury is still out on that one.
Austin Ekeler - Commanders RB
Trading former starting running back Brian Robinson Jr. to the San Francisco 49ers shook up the backfield dynamic considerably. Adam Peters didn't see a future for the player in Washington and got what he could in return. Now, the onus is on others to fill the void.
All the hype has centered on Chris Rodriguez Jr. and seventh-round rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt this summer. However, it would be surprising if Kliff Kingsbury didn't lean on Austin Ekeler over the early stages of the campaign.
Ekeler might not be considered among the league's most prolific dual-threat running backs these days, but he's still got the burst and elusiveness to make a difference if schemed correctly. There are concerns about durability following more serious concussion issues last season, but there have been no issues in that regard over the summer.
The Commanders placed tremendous faith in Ekeler. He must deliver accordingly.
Will Harris - Commanders S
Letting Jeremy Chinn depart for the Las Vegas Raiders in free agency was a massive call by Adam Peters. The standout safety left a huge impression in 2024, but the general manager didn't believe he was worthy of another deal. Whether this decision pays off or not depends on Will Harris.
The Commanders moved quickly to sign Harris once Chinn was on his way out the door. He's a decent veteran presence with a connection to assistant general manager Lance Newmark. He also made an impressive start over the summer, which raised expectations heading into the real action.
Nobody is expecting Harris to match Chinn's dynamism on the backend. But he must be a solid partner capable of providing the dependability that allows potential breakout star Quan Martn to flourish. Anything less will see questions laid at Peters' door.