Bold predictions for the Washington Commanders as they take on the Cleveland Browns in Preseason Week 1 tonight.
One of the most franchise-altering offseasons in Washington Commanders franchise history is over. Game day has officially arrived once again and Ron Rivera's men will look to get their warmup games off on the right foot at the Cleveland Browns tonight.
While the result is far from the most important thing, building momentum is everything at this stage. The Commanders have more of that than ever before thanks to Dan Snyder's departure, but harnessing it in a positive manner on the field is a challenge that could genuinely go either way.
How much we'll see the starters is anyone's guess, but it's likely to be minimal. That gives more opportunities to those further down the depth chart fighting for a roster space - so the quality might drop off but the urgency will increase significantly.
It'll be interesting to see things play out. That said, we made three bold predictions ahead of the Commanders' clash in Cleveland.
Commanders LB Khaleke Hudson gains +10 tackles
There's been a lot to like about the way Khaleke Hudson's applied himself throughout the offseason. The Washington Commanders have a spot open to potentially influence proceedings at the linebacker position with only Jamin Davis and Cody Barton cemented into the lineup, so a strong preseason could tip the scales in his favor.
Hudson's instincts have been on full display at camp. He's gained tremendous confidence from his Week 18 outing at the Dallas Cowboys where he didn't look out of place whatsoever - momentum the former fifth-round selection is looking to build upon this time around.
If Hudson gets prominent reps on the defensive rotation - which is entirely possible in the circumstances, then going over 10 tackles is the best way to cement his status heading into the regular season.
Commanders RB Chris Rodriguez Jr. goes +100 yards rushing
The Washington Commanders have their top two running backs locked in. Brian Robinson Jr. is getting the opportunity to become the long-term lead presence after catching the eye once in the lineup as a rookie, with Antonio Gibson set to be deployed as a third-down weapon that can make a huge difference in the passing game.
There also remains some intrigue surrounding Chris Rodriguez Jr. The sixth-round selection came into the fold on Eric Bieniemy's recommendation during the 2023 NFL Draft and after a rude awakening early at Washington's rookie minicamp, he's come on a great deal ever since and might carve out some sort of role for himself.
Of course, impressing in practice is one thing. But what Rodriguez manages to accomplish in a live fire setting at the Cleveland Browns tonight will be a far better-measuring stick regarding his development.
Rodriguez should get plenty of work once the starters come out. There will be plenty of butterflies in the stomach on his NFL debut, but putting this added adrenaline into decent production where it counts will see the coaching staff's confidence rise along the way.
With that in mind, we're tipping Rodriguez to go over 100 rushing yards. If he can get into the end-zone as well, it's an added bonus for the player and the Commanders.
Commanders DE K.J. Henry gains 2.5 sacks
It was clear that the Washington Commanders and K.J. Henry were always destined for each other. The defensive end's father is a lifelong fan of the franchise and there was a sense of urgency from those in power to get him on board, trading up in the fifth round to secure his services.
Henry has the physical profile needed to become a decent contributor over time. There have been flashes of this throughout camp, although getting starting opportunities on the Commanders' defensive front that is loaded with top-tier talent seems unlikely unless injury strikes.
Considering the injury issues with Chase Young and Phidarian Mathis last season, Henry and others should remain on their toes. The former Clemson star also has the frame to potentially move into a pass-rushing outside linebacker role if all parties are willing.
This is something the Commanders could experiment with during the preseason. Getting Henry as many reps as possible over the next three weeks will be invaluable for the player's development and could even push his way into Jack Del Rio's plans along the way.
Gaining 2.5 sacks would be a dream start for Henry all things considered. It's highly unlikely, but these are bold predictions for a reason.