Power ranking the top 10 Commanders players in 2024 entering Week 3
By Dean Jones
6. Zach Ertz - Commanders TE
The Washington Commanders began a flurry of incomings this offseason by signing veteran tight end Zach Ertz. It's been a long time since he's put up Pro Bowl-caliber numbers, but fans were hopeful his previous connection to Kliff Kingsbury could bear fruit in a different environment despite his advancing years.
Ertz looks the part through two weeks. His leadership is exceptional, he's a willing blocker in run support and is developing some encouraging chemistry with rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. The former second-round pick out of Stanford isn't the force of old, but he knows how to get open and boasts outstanding body control to make tough catches look easy.
There are 15 games left and keeping Ertz healthy is crucial. But if the same trend continues, he might be able to keep rookie second-rounder Ben Sinnott on the fringes for the entire campaign.
5. Austin Ekeler - Commanders RB
Austin Ekeler's arrival in free agency came with significant intrigue attached. Nobody - including the veteran - was expecting him to get the bulk of carries with Brian Robinson Jr. around. Having an established young running back in place was a prerequisite for the player after he departed from the Los Angeles Chargers. This decision seems to be paying off based on his performance levels over the opening fortnight.
Ekeler's been deployed more as a pass-catcher out of the backfield. It's a role he's accustomed to and is thriving despite averaging 4.8 yards per carry on the ground from 10 touches. The former undrafted free agent is providing Jayden Daniels with a dependable security blanket underneath and has no trouble gaining additional yards after contact through an exceptional blend of core strength and contact balance.
With 147 all-purpose yards over two games, Ekeler's been outstanding so far in 2024. He's also making his presence felt in the kick return game, which is a nice surprise and something that provides an extra level of dynamism that wasn't evident previously.
4. Sam Cosmi - Commanders RB
The Commanders gave Sam Cosmi a big confidence boost and some long-term security just before the season with a bumper new contract extension. This was nothing more than the former second-round pick deserved after making an exceptional transition to the right guard spot in 2023. It's also something the dominant presence is taking extremely seriously.
Cosmi knows that bigger money comes with higher standards anticipated. He's given up two penalties, but the pass protection remains accomplished and the Texas product is generating more push on running downs for good measure.
This is a tremendous start to Cosmi as he goes in search of his first Pro Bowl selection this season. The Commanders' investment in the offensive line interior seems to be paying off. Having a mobile signal-caller capable of making their life much easier is another important factor of this equation that shouldn't be overlooked.