4 winners (and 3 losers) from Commanders' preseason loss at NY Jets
By Dean Jones
Loser No. 2
Chris Rodriguez Jr. - Commanders RB
There's a growing sense that all might not be as it appeared for Chris Rodriguez Jr. in the running back room. Most believed the second-year pro would be the No. 3 running back option behind Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler after catching the eye during limited involvement in 2023. However, the Washington Commanders are giving others opportunities to unseat the former sixth-round selection.
Rodriguez didn't do his chances much good in Preseason Week 1 at the New York Jets. The Kentucky product failed to gain positive yardage from six carries and couldn't bring in his only target in the passing game. In contrast, Michael Wiley looked much more forceful, gaining 34 rushing yards and one touchdown from eight touches.
This only raises the urgency where Rodriguez is concerned. He's not out of contention by any stretch of the imagination. But it's hard to ignore how precarious his situation is if the same trend continues over the next few weeks.
It'll take a huge effort from Rodriguez to cement his status on the 53-man roster. If he thinks it's the right thing to do, general manager Adam Peters won't hesitate to dispose of another Ron Rivera draft pick way ahead of time.
Winner No. 3
Tyler Owens - Commanders S
Tyler Owens has been the hot name throughout Washington's training camp. The undrafted free agent rose from obscurity into roster contention quickly. He's got the size and physical profile Dan Quinn looks for in his defensive backs - something that can be an asset to the secondary rotation and special teams in 2024.
Owens looked explosive and made his tackles count throughout his first chance to shine in an NFL game-day setting. The former Texas Tech star's outstanding special teams play - stopping a punt return with a thumping hit - demonstrated his speed and physicality to full effect.
This is another impressive feather in Owens' cap. There is some legitimate momentum building around the player, so he's someone to watch over the next fortnight before the time for final cuts arrives.
Competition for places is fierce in the safety room, but Owens is leaving no doubt regarding his status based on how things have unfolded this summer. The Commanders would be taking a monumental risk if they plan to stash him on the practice squad. A player demonstrating this much promise is unlikely to clear waivers.
Those in power have a big decision to make. However, it's getting to the point where it would be surprising if Owens didn't make the 53.