Washington’s 31-17 preseason loss to Cincinnati highlighted more winners than losers for fantasy-minded Commanders enthusiasts. Deebo Samuel’s debut injected immediate veteran juice, while Chris Rodriguez Jr. flashed a decisive, vision-forward style that could elevate Washington’s backfield. Luke McCaffrey faced a tougher road, Jaylin Lane impressed as a developing option, and Sam Hartman’s bumpier night underscored the quarterback competition’s murkiness. Frankie Luvu generated pressure and showed versatility, while backs like Croskey-Merritt signaled how crowded the room could get if a Robinson trade unfolds before Week 1.

Rodriguez’s 40-yard burst set the tone, Samuel’s first carry added a spark, and Lane’s third-down receptions suggested a path for a mid-round rookie to carve a role. Hartman’s shoulder concerns and Hartman’s early rhythm created questions about the immediate floor for the passing game, but Washington still ran a compact, multiple-back offense that could surprise fantasy managers if the depth chart clears. The Commanders now host Baltimore on a short week, making the final tune-up critical for roster decisions and early-season projections.

In short, Rodriguez and Lane emerged as the clearest fantasy-friendly signals, while Hartman’s health and the receiver grouping offer the most room for volatility. Samuel’s arrival keeps the offense dynamic, but the path to weekly production depends on roster rigidity and how Washington uses its revamped depth across both backfield and pass-catching roles. As the roster crystallizes, savvy fantasy players should watch how the Week 3 reps translate to real-season opportunity.