Commanders 2024 rookie power rankings entering Week 1 at the Buccaneers

3. Brandon Coleman - Commanders OT

Having Brandon Coleman listed as a full participant in practice to start preparations for Week 1 was a significant boost. The Washington Commanders elevated the rookie third-rounder to their starting left tackle over Cornelius Lucas at training camp. Unfortunately, he suffered a shoulder injury that denied him vital reps during the preseason.

Coleman is raring to go now. This provides the Commanders with a conundrum. Do they throw the former TCU standout into the fire without any legitimate NFL game-day experience? Or do they ride with Lucas over the opening couple of weeks?

This will be one of the most difficult decisions facing Dan Quinn and his coaching staff before their regular-season curtain-raiser. Coleman's athleticism and encouraging progress made over the offseason almost guarantee he'd be a better option. However, previous knowledge of a competitive environment is also a major factor in this complex equation.

Whether Coleman starts or not, his progress coupled with his successful return to full health is a big boost to Washington's much-maligned protection.

2. Mike Sainristil - Commanders CB

The Commanders believe they might have something special on their hands with Mike Sainristil. They gave him one of 20 gold marks during their pre-draft evaluations en route to taking the cornerback at No. 50 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. It's early days, but this has all the makings of a steal based on initial impressions.

Sainristil has not carried himself like a typical rookie according to defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. He's a strong communicator and ready to assume leadership responsibilities right out of the gate. The Commanders will start him immediately as the slot coverage presence. Fans should also expect to see him impact things heavily against the run and even be utilized on blitz packages when the situation dictates.

Whitt, head coach Dan Quinn, and countless players lavished praise on Sainristil during the offseason. There will probably be a brief adjustment period before the former Michigan star finds his feet, but it would be a big shock if the first-year pro didn't make a significant impact at some stage in Week 1 at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

1. Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB

Jayden Daniels has more expectations on him than most entering the season. The Commanders selected him at No. 2 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft to become their franchise-altering presence at the quarterback position. This is something Washington hasn't had for years and quickly became the primary catalyst behind previous head coach Ron Rivera's demise.

Daniels isn't lacking confidence or self-belief as he embarks on the most pivotal stage of his football journey. There's a natural aura and fierce inner drive that's hard not to love. He won over teammates with an exceptional work ethic throughout the offseason, which indicates the signal-caller is taking nothing for granted despite his lofty draft status.

This ensured Daniels' transition from college to the pros went extremely smoothly. The Commanders named him their QB1 after two outstanding cameos during the preseason. Things will get tougher in a more competitive setting, but all signs are pointing up for someone many analysts believe will quickly enter superstar status.

Tempering expectations would be wise initially for Daniels. At the same time, he's got the tools to become an instant difference-maker if other offensive position groups meet their end of the bargain.

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