Even though organized team activities are just a small step in the Washington Commanders' preparations for the 2026 campaign, they're a constant source of evaluation. General manager Adam Peters isn't afraid to make changes when needed, and he has the money to further strengthen the roster if he believes it's necessary.
That raises the stakes for everyone.
Beat reporters in attendance at OTAs noticed a different feel around the building from the moment practices began. Players who were around for last year's capitulation are eager to put things right. The new arrivals via free agency and the 2026 NFL Draft have all bought in immediately, keen to make their presences felt and help Washington get back on track.
The tempo was noticeably higher. Washington's coaching staff was accused of putting together a lighter workload last offseason, and complacency set in. Head coach Dan Quinn was not going to make the same mistake again, and the new coordinators have provided everyone with a massive lift at the best possible time.
This will be ramped up even further at mandatory minicamp before the pre-training camp break. It's early days, of course, but clues are already emerging about various dynamics.
With this in mind, we took a look at how the Commanders' 53-man roster could look after a fascinating OTA period.
Washington Commanders' 53-man roster prediction after 2026 OTAs
Commanders special teams (3)
- Jake Moody (PK), Tress Way (P), Tyler Ott (LS)
Two of the three special teams spots are set in stone. Pro Bowl punter Tress Way is the team's longest-tenured player and a respected locker room leader. Long-snapper Tyler Ott's name isn't heard much, but considering the position he plays, that's a good thing.
Then, there's the kicking spot.
The Washington Commanders are holding a legitimate competition that Dan Quinn said would run throughout the summer. Given how things have gone so far, the coach and Adam Peters might even delay their decision until final cuts are due.
There is an enormous amount of hype around undrafted rookie Drew Stevens. The Commanders moved swiftly to sign him once interest from elsewhere emerged. He's got a booming leg and has performed well so far, but veteran Jake Moody's urgency has also increased his consistency with someone breathing down his neck.
Moody will not be giving up his spot without a fight. His performance levels over OTAs further display that fact. And even though Stevens will still fancy his chances of unseating his teammate from the No. 1 role, the former Ohio State star remains the tentative frontrunner until further notice.
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