3 intriguing storylines to monitor during Commanders' preseason clash vs. Bengals

Commanders WRs and special teams impact

This might be the most intriguing area to watch heading into the Washington Commanders' last preseason game. And there is all to play for lower down the wide receiver pecking order.

We already know that Terry McLaurin, Jahan Dotson, Curtis Samuel, Dyami Brown, and perhaps even Byron Pringle have locked up places. That leaves Dax Milne, Marcus Kemp, Kazmeir Allen, and Mitchell Tinsley remaining for what could be one spot on the initial 53-man roster.

If we look at the current 90-man roster as it stands, then one could make a strong case for Tinsley having the No. 6 spot after a sensational offseason. But of course, nothing is set in stone heading into the warmup finale.

With Milne still working his way back from a groin injury and his status uncertain, that leaves a chance for Allen to make an impact as a pass-catcher and kick-returner if the BYU product isn't risked.

Special teams are very important in the game, even with all the rule changes. The Commanders haven't had that explosive element to depend upon consistently throughout the Ron Rivera era and this has to change moving forward.

The one-time UCLA star could be that guy. Someone who can be used in multiple ways. And with McLaurin's status uncertain for Week 1, a place on the offensive rotation shouldn't be completely dismissed where Allen is concerned.

Washington's roster is going to be very different than we have seen throughout the years. But this change was an absolute necessity heading into such a critical campaign for many.