7 Commanders players whose stock is soaring entering Preseason Week 2
By Dean Jones
Braeden Daniels - Commanders OL
Braeden Daniels has taken his fair share of criticism since joining the Washington Commanders. The versatile offensive lineman spent his rookie campaign on injured reserve with a torn bicep and struggled to find the right consistency during his initial adjustment. He's way down the pecking order currently. At the same time, there were signs of life in Preseason Week 1 at the New York Jets.
Daniels was given reps on the edge and impressed when on the field. It was against second and third-stringers, so it needs the right context attached. However, this was a huge morale boost for the player in pursuit of carving out a role for himself under the new regime.
This is arguably the first real positive of Daniels' time in Washington. His situation could go either way - especially given general manager Adam Peters is showing no remorse when it comes to cutting Ron Rivera draft picks - but it's a sounder foundation from which to build.
Amid all the doom and gloom surrounding Daniels, it's important to give credit where it's due. Whether the former Utah standout can keep this up to enhance his roster chances is another matter.
Olamide Zaccheaus - Commanders WR
Olamide Zaccheaus' influence is growing with every passing week. The wide receiver joined the Commanders in free agency after working with head coach Dan Quinn during their time together on the Atlanta Falcons. He could be a surprising contributor in 2024 based on the sample size we've seen over the summer.
Zaccheaus is becoming a dependable target over short-to-intermediate routes. He's crisp out of his route stems and has the elusiveness to generate yards after the catch. This is coming across daily in practice, gaining the trust of coaches and rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels along the way.
Another potential area where Zaccheaus could be utilized is special teams. The Commanders are getting a good look at the player in their return game. It's something he's got experience and proven production in, so this will come in handy given the new NFL kickoff rules.
Competition is fierce in the wideout room right now. However, the former Virginia star's stock is soaring more than most in pursuit of accumulating his fair share of targets when the regular season begins.