4 Commanders players entering precarious situations in 2024
By Dean Jones
Nick Allegretti - Commanders OL
The Washington Commanders had to solidify their offensive line this offseason. Everyone knew a rookie quarterback would be coming into the fold. Improving the protection might provide Jayden Daniels with the clean pockets needed to take the NFL by storm throughout his first year in a professional environment.
Concerns surrounding the offensive tackle positions took the attention away from another potential complication. This centers on whether Nick Allegretti can capitalize on his free-agent switch after flashing on a rotational basis for the Kansas City Chiefs in 2023.
Allegretti signed a three-year, $16 million deal with the Commanders that included a $5.89 million signing bonus and $9.02 million guaranteed. More importantly, this provides the interior presence with a chance to firmly cement himself as a productive NFL starter.
The former Illinois standout played just 80 offensive snaps during the regular season in 2023. When the Chiefs lost Joe Thuney to an unfortunate injury deep into the postseason, it thrust Allegretti into the limelight. He wasn't going to waste this significant opportunity to shine on the biggest stages of all.
After catching the eye during the AFC Championship game, Allegretti logged 79 snaps during the Super Bowl with a torn UCL and shone further. This ability to fight through pain in pursuit of helping Kansas City triumph is the exact quality Adam Peters and Dan Quinn are looking to implement across the Commanders.
Allegretti is slotted to start at the left guard position based on consensus projections. Hopes are relatively high that the veteran can provide a sense of stability that was sorely lacking last time around. But he hasn't been a prominent starting option since 2020.
This is a huge chance for Allegretti to become a long-term part of the Commanders' plans in a position of critical need. His outstanding pass protection and exceptional work ethic could serve him well, but getting off to a fast start is crucial. Especially considering the concerns surrounding Washington's blindside options at the left tackle spot.