4 winners (and 3 losers) from the Washington Commanders 2024 preseason

Loser No. 1

Ricky Stromberg - Commanders OL

If there was one glaring flaw facing the Washington Commanders on offense, it's their offensive line depth. The team's starting five looks set and should provide an upgrade if rookie third-rounder Brandon Coleman copes as the starting left tackle when introduced. Things are less hopeful after that, especially on the interior.

The Commanders needed someone to step up and leave no doubt as to their importance. That didn't arrive in the preseason, which could see general manager Adam Peters take advantage of Washington's No. 2 waiver wire priority for additional reinforcements.

What this means for Ricky Stromberg's future remains to be seen. The former third-round selection hasn't covered himself in glory this offseason. It's not been a total disaster, but there are raised standards under the new regime that aren't being met right now.

Stromberg has versatility working in his favor, but that might not be enough. While it would be surprising if the Arkansas product wasn't included on Washington's initial 53-man roster, it couldn't be ruled out entirely.

Winner No. 2

Michael Wiley - Commanders RB

Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler are the Commanders' top two running backs. That's not in question and both will play a key role in any success that comes the team's way in 2024. Things are less clear than they once appeared behind them.

Washington seemed set with Chris Rodriguez Jr. as the No. 3 option. The former sixth-round selection showed promise during limited involvement as a rookie, so hopes were high he could build on this positive outlook and re-establish himself under the new regime. That hasn't occurred, and someone else came to the fore to make this a tough decision.

Michael Wiley - an undrafted free agent out of Arizona - transitioned seamlessly and made every chance count. He's a dynamic runner who can assist in the passing game when the situation dictates. Perhaps more impressive was his willingness to assist from a blocking capacity - something that won't go unnoticed by the coaching staff with some big decisions looming.

Wiley was a preseason stud while Rodriguez struggled to generate yards on the ground. The new regime has no problem disposing of Roin Rivera draft picks if they aren't up to the required standard. Don't be surprised if this trend continues with the RB3 battle.