3 winners (and 2 losers) from Commanders' preseason win vs. Patriots
By Dean Jones
The Washington Commanders got the chance to perform with the national spotlight glaring in their preseason finale against the New England Patriots. Majority ownership partner Josh Harris spent time before the game showing media about the improved facility. Fans got the chance to see how those on the fringes are faring with head coach Dan Quinn resting his starters for the clash.
This was the last opportunity those fighting for roster spots had to stake a claim. There were some good moments and some bad ones thrown in for good measure, but the Commanders picked up a morale-boosting victory on home soil before attention turned to final cuts and Week 1 at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Adam Peters faces some difficult decisions upcoming. Some look easier than others, but Preseason Week 3 gave the new general manager another important evaluation tool to call upon heading into some tough conversations in the coming days.
With that being said, here are three winners and two losers from Washington's preseason win over the Patriots.
Winners and losers from Commanders' preseason win vs. the Patriots
Winner No. 1
K.J. Henry - Commanders DE
The Washington Commanders need one of their pass-rushers to step up and become a force opposite free-agent signing Dorance Armstrong Jr. Clelin Ferrell and Dante Fowler Jr. might be in the driver's seat for involvement, but K.J. Henry's continued progress is giving the coaching staff plenty to think about.
Henry's been a revelation over the summer. He flashed when reps finally arrived last season and is looking to put that newfound experience to good use. The former fifth-round selection out of Clemson left another notable impression in Washington's final preseason game, coming up with a devastating sack on ex-Commanders quarterback Jacoby Brissett and causing consistent disruption when on the field.
There's no doubt Henry's roster status is secure. That's not up for discussion. However, the player's performance levels under the new coaching regime could lead to a potential starting role if the same trend continues during the regular season.