Power ranking the top 10 Commanders players in 2024 entering Week 3
By Dean Jones
3. Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB
One doesn't have to look far around the NFL to see rookie quarterbacks - and some entering their second year - struggling with the spotlight glaring. Fortunately for everyone associated with the Washington Commanders, Jayden Daniels is not one of them.
The No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft hasn't thrown a touchdown as yet, but that'll come once Kliff Kingsbury opens the offense and Daniels becomes more comfortable in the pocket. His poise was much-improved in Week 2 against the New York Giants, so he's learning how to slow the game down in his head and make things happen without relying entirely on his electrifying rushing ability.
The Commanders couldn't have asked any more from Daniels over his opening two regular-season contests in the pros. He's only going to improve with additional experience, which is a scary thought for defensive coordinators around the league based on what we've seen so far.
2. Nick Allegretti - Commanders OL
When the Commanders signed Nick Allegretti in free agency, they were doing so almost solely based on his performances for the Kansas City Chiefs deep into the postseason. The interior offensive lineman was thrust into the limelight after an injury to Joe Thuney ahead of the AFC Championship game. Not exactly the easiest proposition, but he excelled.
Allegretti was outstanding both in the conference showdown versus the Baltimore Ravens and the Super Bowl. He's brought this newfound momentum to a different environment, making the starting left guard spot his own and performing incredibly well over the first two games.
There is a long way to go and the two penalties aren't ideal. However, Allegretti's been almost flawless aside from that. Questions remain about the offensive tackle positions, but the interior looks assured with a quarterback who has no trouble escaping pressure when it arrives.
1. Brian Robinson Jr. - Commanders RB
Brian Robinson Jr. came into the season with ambitions to become a genuine focal point under the new regime. The running back felt he was vastly underutilized by previous offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy despite gaining more than 1,000 all-purpose yards. He's maximized an enhanced role in the best way imaginable over the first fortnight of the campaign.
After flashing when called upon in defeat at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the former third-round pick out of Alabama produced the final game of his professional career against the New York Giants. Robinson was nothing short of relentless, rushing for 133 yards on just 17 carries. He was breaking tackles at will and turning even the smallest creases into lofty gains.
This is a tremendous start for Robinson. The Commanders would be wise to involve him early and often no matter the opposition. He's a tone-setting force within a backfield that's demonstrated enormous promise through two weeks. Long may it continue.