7 under the radar Commanders players who must excel in 2024
By Dean Jones
K.J. Henry - Commanders DE
The Washington Commanders strengthened their edge-rushing options this offseason. Whether they've done enough to fill the gaping void left by Montez Sweat and Chase Young is another matter.
Dorance Armstrong Jr., Clelin Ferrell, and Dante Fowler Jr. form the core veteran trio who'll be tasked with the lion's share of reps. There's also hope that K.J. Henry can continue his emergence into a productive piece of the puzzle entering Year 2 of his professional career.
Not much was expected of Henry as a fifth-round selection who was used as a rotational piece during his college career at Clemson. However, he caught the eye when given more involvement, especially when it came to setting the edge on running plays.
This is a solid foundation from which to build. Henry must prove himself all over again under a new coaching staff, but he's got newfound momentum to put to good use in pursuit of carving out a bigger role in 2024.
Nick Allegretti - Commanders OL
Severe questions remain about the left tackle position. Whether veteran Cornelius Lucas or third-round selection Brandon Coleman get the starting blindside gig remains to be seen, but it makes Nick Allegretti's role even more integral following his arrival in free agency from the Kansas City Chiefs.
Allegretti spent most of last season as a backup. He was thrust into the limelight during the postseason when Joe Thuney went down through injury. It was an opportunity the interior force wasn't going to waste, excelling in the AFC Championship game and Super Bowl as the Chiefs hoisted the Vince Lombardi Trophy once again.
This was enough for the Commanders to sign Allegretti to a three-year, $16 million deal with a $5.89 million signing bonus and $9.02 million guaranteed. He'll be the starter at left guard in Week 1 at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers unless something drastic occurs. If he meets or perhaps even exceeds expectations, it'll be an outstanding piece of business by new general manager Adam Peters.