4 Commanders players whose stock is soaring ahead of 2023 training camp

Khaleke Hudson - Commanders LB

No player has perhaps helped themselves more so far this offseason than Khaleke Hudson. The former fifth-round selection caught the eye during his one and only start last season against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 18 and has clearly taken on that confidence in the pursuit of similar involvement next time around.

Hudson has the athleticism and instincts to make things happen. There also appears to be an opening next to Jamin Davis and Cody Barton at the defensive second level depending on how many two-linebacker sets Jack Del Rio implements as part of his strategy from game to game.

This sentiment was echoed by John Keim of ESPN, who named Hudson as his surprise standout from early workouts. The respected writer also indicated that his production has lessened the urgency for Washington when it comes to strengthening this position group.

"Hudson, a backup/special-teamer in his first three seasons, worked with the starters during the spring in part because Jamin Davis was recovering from offseason knee surgery and free agent signee Cody Barton was working with the backups as he learned the defense. Hudson impressed the coaches, however, building on a successful start in the regular-season finale. He played fast this spring -- as he did in the finale against Dallas. While Washington entered the offseason wanting to improve its linebacker depth, Hudson's one-game performance, as well as this spring, put that quest on hold."

- John Keim, ESPN

To say this is a strong platform from which to build would be an understatement. Hudson is riding on the crest of a wave currently, which is a trend he'll be hoping to continue throughout Washington's training camp.