Quan Martin - Commanders DB
Quan Martin remains difficult to figure out. The Washington Commanders gave him a surprising reprieve this offseason, and he made the most of it. They could have easily removed the defensive back from the equation after a disastrous 2025 campaign, but new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones saw a player worth salvaging.
Martin looked the part throughout the summer. He had a strong camp and flashed promise in the preseason, securing an interception against the Detroit Lions to earn a spot on the 53-man roster. But the same flaws resurfaced in Week 1.
The Illinois product was used as a rotational safety behind Nick Cross and Jeremy Reaves. Martin struggled to get his foot in the game, and it's clear he still has confidence issues that need addressing.
Just how much longer the leash will be for Martin remains to be seen. But given the cornerback concerns, using him as a big nickel wouldn't be the worst idea in the world.
This would line Martin up against tight end Jake Ferguson, who's emerged as a dependable option over the middle for quarterback Dak Prescott. And with George Pickens and CeeDee Lamb stretching the field, opportunities should be plentiful.
When Martin's number is called, he must be ready. Because chances are rapidly running out.
Antonio Williams - Commanders WR
As far as NFL debuts go, wide receiver Antonio Williams had a pretty good one. The Commanders didn't make him a focal point, which is understandable with Terry McLaurin and Stefon Diggs also around. Still, the third-round pick finished as the leader in receiving yards while also securing an opening-day touchdown.
It wasn't enough for the Commanders to claw their way back to a priceless victory, but Williams can look back on his accomplishments with pride. And it would be a big surprise if offensive coordinator David Blough didn't get him more involved moving forward.
Williams is getting harder for the Commanders to keep quiet. With the Cowboys' suspect defense and a soft middle, the former Clemson standout could have another productive afternoon at the office.
There is a problem.
First-round defensive back Caleb Downs.
While the Cowboys' defense drew criticism in Week 1, Downs was an exception. He looked as advertised, and considering he's spending a lot of time in the nickel, it's a tricky proposition for Williams to overcome.
This will be a pulsating matchup between two extremely bright young prospects. Williams won't have it all his way, but his Week 1 efforts against an outstanding Philadelphia Eagles secondary should give him confidence.
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