Drake Jackson - Commanders DE/OLB
The Washington Commanders had to prioritize their edge-rushing options this offseason. Adam Peters recognized this fact, spending money in free agency and using one of his draft picks to fortify this previously lackluster unit.
Odafe Oweh was the big splash. K'Lavon Chaisson is betting on himself with another prove-it deal. Charles Omenihu offers experience, and Joshua Josephs brings immediate rotational upside. With Dorance Armstrong Jr. also making encouraging progress from a serious knee injury, things are finally looking up.
That doesn't leave much room for the rest. Drake Jackson will be among those fighting for a roster spot, which is predicated on the 2022 second-round pick finally getting a clear run of luck on the health front.
Jackson's injury problems have decimated his career to date. The Commanders gradually brought him along last season, and he did get some time on the field late in the campaign. But with the acquisitions made this offseason, his outlook is firmly in the balance.
Tre Hawkins III - Commanders CB
Washington's cornerback group is a topic of discussion among the fan base. Adam Peters didn't do much to improve the unit this offseason. He believes that with a stronger front seven causing havoc, things will be a little easier across the secondary.
Mike Sainristil and Trey Amos will lead the charge. Amik Robertson and Ahkello Witherspoon were acquired in free agency. Antonio Hamilton Sr. was re-signed after the draft to bolster depth and potentially provide special teams assistance.
That might be enough, but the Commanders have cash to spend if the right opportunity emerges in the coming months. Still, any more fresh faces are not going to look favorably on Tre Hawkins III, who faces a fight to stay relevant in pursuit of a roster spot.
Hawkins has impressive size and length for the cornerback position. Things just haven't clicked so far, and the former Old Dominion standout has to stay healthy throughout the preparation period to stand a chance of sticking around.
Tim McKay - Commanders OL
The Commanders' offensive line was a rare area of stability heading into the offseason. Despite questions at the center position after releasing starting veteran Tyler Biadasz, that remains the case.
Chris Paul was re-signed to a one-year deal, which means he'll likely start at left guard once again. Laremy Tunsil and Josh Conerly Jr. are a potential bookend tackle tandem, and right guard Sam Cosmi is one of the best around when healthy. If the anchor is figured out, this could be a highly productive unit.
Depth behind them has also improved. Andrew Wylie and Brandon Coleman are versatile enough to play almost anywhere. Matt Gulbin could fight for starting reps at center immediately with a smooth transition. Trent Scott is experienced, and Foster Sarell was also brought back.
What that means for the others is anyone's guess. Tim McKay's first season in Washington was hampered by injuries. The undrafted free agent is now in danger of getting left behind.
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