Rachaad White - Commanders RB
The running back dynamic was a fascinating one entering the offseason. New offensive coordinator David Blough acknowledged that more was required for his scheme to be deployed effectively, and general manager Adam Peters duly delivered.
Jacory Croskey-Merritt should have a big role to play after his rookie breakout. Sixth-round pick Kaytron Allen provides a physical force in between the tackles, who could also help in the red zone. But none may be more important than free-agent signing Rachaad White.
Despite getting offers from elsewhere, White opted to reunite with his old college quarterback, Jayden Daniels, while also betting on himself with a one-year, $2 million deal. Based on how he set the tone over the early stages of OTAs, a pivotal role could be in the offing.
White's speed, quick changes of direction, and effortless ability to turn upfield were highlighted by media observers. His previous chemistry with Daniels only whets the appetite further.
Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB
Jayden Daniels has carried himself with a superstar swagger from the moment he joined the Commanders as the No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft. But for the first time, new doubts are being raised about the dynamic quarterback.
They are understandable, given that Daniels featured just seven times and completed only four games last season. Questions are being raised about his durability, which has given him all the motivation he needs to silence his growing skeptics.
Daniels is healthy. He's led the charge away from the team, arranging workouts and making sure everyone is on the same page. This came across early in OTAs, with his supreme knowledge of David Blough's schematic changes blowing away his teammates and coaches in short order.
This shouldn't come as a great shock. Daniels has been heavily involved in the system implementation. He's taking charge and leading by example. That is precisely what the Commanders wanted to see from their franchise player.
Odafe Oweh - Commanders DE/OLB
The Commanders placed a significant wager on edge rusher Odafe Oweh this offseason. Adam Peters needed to find upgrades to their pass-rush, which was anemic at best during the previous campaign. After neglecting the position group last year, the front-office leader made it his top priority.
Oweh was the big splash, signing a four-year, $96 million deal with a $26 million signing bonus and $68 million guaranteed. This is a lot for someone who's been a rotational edge defender throughout his career, but he's got the size, length, and athleticism to play a three-down role.
The 2021 first-round pick out of Penn State is ferocious in pursuit of the quarterback. Oweh has enough physical strength to be more impactful against the run, but his main task in a 3-4 front will be generating havoc.
Oweh's explosiveness over the opening portion of OTAs represented something the Commanders didn't boast last season, especially after Dorance Armstrong Jr. went down.
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