Washington’s Week 2 preseason date with Cincinnati doubles as a final dress rehearsal for six players fighting for a 53-man spot. Sam Hartman needs a clean, impactful showing to boost his case for a No. 3 QB role and potentially snag a practice-squad path in 2025, while Chris Paul continues to cement himself as a lock to stick, pending a couple of snaps that test his space-moving ability in Kliff Kingsbury’s scheme. Chris Rodriguez Jr. headlines the running backs, needing to outpace a crowded room and prove he can handle more than special-teams duty as Washington trims its backfield.

On the receiving side, Ja'Corey Brooks has emerged as a sleeper with a chance to crack the final roster if he shows he can contribute on special teams and deliver after the catch. Jalyn Holmes is a veteran edge presence whose versatility could earn him a rotation spot, and Kain Medrano’s aggressive, hybrid-safety role keeps him squarely in the competition. The game also serves as a final evaluator for the Commanders’ depth along the lines and at linebacker, with the staff watching how these six key players respond to adversity and pressure in prime-time action.

Fantasy takeaway: Hartman is a long-shot but worth monitoring for a late-upside move or practice-squad waitlist, while Paul’s steadiness could push him into a regular-season role if he continues to show mobility and pass protection. Rodriguez Jr. is the truest in-season wild card among the group—watch snaps, blocking, and usage to gauge his add/stash value. Brooks, Holmes, and Medrano each offer late-round intrigue for dynasty or keeper formats if they rise in the final two preseason games.

The Washington Commanders are making strategic moves to bolster their roster for the upcoming 2025 season, re-signing important defensive line reserve, Jalyn Holmes, on a one-year deal. Holmes, who played a vital role in the team's successful run to the NFC Championship in 2024, brings valuable experience and versatility to the Commanders’ defense. In his first season, Holmes contributed 14 tackles, including five tackles for loss and two sacks across 11 games. Previously, he had stints with teams like the New York Jets, New Orleans Saints, and Chicago Bears, before solidifying his spot within Washington's defensive rotation. With Holmes back in the fold, the Commanders aim to maintain their formidable defensive strength that contributed to their playoff success.

The Washington Commanders faced a tough defeat against the Dallas Cowboys, losing 34-26 and extending their losing streak to three games. Despite a strong effort, a missed extra point and a failed onside kick sealed their fate, leaving them further behind the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC East.

Defensively, the Commanders struggled, allowing Cooper Rush to throw for over 200 yards and two touchdowns. The team is eager for the return of Marshon Lattimore to bolster their defense as they seek to regain their early-season form and stay in playoff contention.

Washington Commanders coach Dan Quinn expressed excitement over acquiring cornerback Marshon Lattimore from the New Orleans Saints ahead of the trade deadline. The team traded multiple draft picks for Lattimore, who is known for his defensive prowess and ability to shadow top receivers.

Despite recent injury struggles, Lattimore's addition aims to bolster a struggling secondary. He joins a Commanders team that is currently thriving, with players eager to join their ranks. Lattimore's familiarity with teammates from Ohio State may ease his transition as they prepare for an upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Brian Robinson Jr. is eager to return to the Washington Commanders after a knee injury sidelined him, contributing to a loss against the Baltimore Ravens. His presence is expected to significantly enhance the team's run game, which struggled in his absence.

Despite missing the last game, Robinson leads the Commanders in rushing yards and touchdowns. The team is optimistic about his return for the upcoming game against the Carolina Panthers, as both players and coaches recognize his unique abilities on the field.