Nick Allegretti - Commanders OL
The Washington Commanders made some significant changes to their offensive line this offseason. Laremy Tunsil and Josh Conerly Jr. are the new starting tackle tandem. Brandon Coleman is switching to left guard, and Tyler Biadasz remains the dependable veteran center with already developed chemistry with Jayden Daniels.
There is a potential issue at the right guard position. Sam Cosmi will miss the first four games and potentially more as he recovers from a torn ACL. The Commanders haven't confirmed anything yet, but it seems like Nick Allegretti is in line to fill the void initially.
The stakes could not be higher for Allegretti. He underperformed last season, especially from a pass-blocking standpoint. Getting off to a positive start is crucial. Otherwise, the Commanders will have no hesitation in turning to Andrew Wylie until Cosmi is ready to return.
Daron Payne - Commanders DL
Releasing veteran defensive tackle Jonathan Allen was an inevitable move made by the Commanders this offseason. The Pro Bowler's production had declined, and his motivation was not where it needed to be, having been mentally beaten down by the ineptitude of previous regimes.
Allen's departure represents a supreme vote of confidence in Daron Payne. Head coach Dan Quinn lauded the former Alabama standout for his improved focus and emerging leadership this summer. He's stepping out of the shadows to become an alpha dog without his old college teammate around. If this continues into the regular season, a dominant campaign could be in the offing.
Payne is the team's highest salary-cap hit this season and next. If he wants to see out the final year of his deal and potentially be in line for a contract extension ahead of time, he has to return to his Pro Bowl-caliber standards.
Deebo Samuel Sr. - Commanders WR
The Commanders placed a significant amount of faith in Deebo Samuel Sr. this offseason. Kliff Kingsbury doesn't need the versatile wide receiver to be the No. 1 option — Washington has Terry McLaurin for that. They need the South Carolina product to be a complementary piece capable of adding a different dynamic to the schematic concepts.
Samuel showed up in shape and ready to work after receiving some harsh criticism over his conditioning. He's relishing a new challenge, and McLaurin's long contract standoff allowed him to develop some quick early chemistry with superstar quarterback Jayden Daniels.
All signs are pointing up for Samuel. He's got an enormous amount at stake in 2025, which also happens to be a contract year for the one-time All-Pro. If he can produce the goods and stay healthy, the Commanders could offer him another deal next spring.