RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 1 sourcesThe Washington Commanders kicked training camp off on Wednesday . We're about to see all of those offseason additions on the field and in pads for the first time, and hopefully, we'll get a good feel for the team.
Of course, certain players are entering training camp with more to prove than others. Most of the starting spots (we think) are already accounted for, but there are always some spots up for grabs until the very end. It's also always fun to see which players can break out during camp and the preseason.
Today, let's talk about four Commanders who have the most to prove at camp.
RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt
Jacory Croskey-Merritt started strong as a rookie. The running back had an 82-yard performance in Week 1 and then had his first 100-yard performance in Week 5. Unfortunately, Croskey-Merritt tapered off during a large stretch in the middle of the season.
Croskey-Merritt ended the season with 805 yards and eight touchdowns. It wasn't a bad season by any means, but the Commanders made it known this offseason that they weren't content relying on Croskey-Merritt in 2026. The team brought in Rachaad White, Jerome Ford, and rookie Kaytron Allen. That could definitely mean a reduced role for Croskey-Merritt.
However, if the second-year running back looks improved at camp, he can keep himself atop the depth chart. There's no margin for error, though, with so many other talented players in the room.
WR Antonio Williams
It feels unfair to put a third-round rookie on this list, but that's the situation the Commanders are in. The team's wide receiver room is not deep at all, and it seems clear that Williams is going to be relied upon heavily.
Williams is one of the best receivers in Clemson history, which is truly saying something, given that program's illustrious history. There's no denying Williams has the talent to be a key piece of the offense, but will he be ready to take on that role as a rookie? It will be interesting to see how quickly Williams picks up the offense and if he looks worthy of the WR2 role.
DL Jer'Zhan Newton
Jer'Zhan Newton is entering a pivotal year with the Commanders. When the team took him in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, the hope was that he could eventually be a Jonathan Allen replacement.
Well, Newton has yet to live up to that expectation, but he has shown signs. In 2025, the Illinois product racked up 38 tackles, four tackles for loss, and five sacks. That was definitely a nice step forward, but the Commanders would love for Newton to take a step during camp this summer.
Newton needs to make plays and prove he deserves to be on the field in 2026. Daron Payne is a free agent after 2026, and Javon Kinlaw was underwhelming in 2025. Therefore, Newton has a perfect opportunity to prove he can be a key piece of the line for years to come.
DB Mike Sainristil
Mike Sainristil had a good rookie season in 2024, playing on the boundary. Then, last year, the Commanders moved him to the slot, which is where he played in college, and he struggled mightily.
Luckily, the Commanders signed Amik Robertson this offseason to play nickel, allowing Sainristil to move back outside. Will this change help the corner regain his swagger? He won't be simply given the role, though, as he'll have to beat out veterans Ahkello Witherspoon and Rasul Douglas. Sainristil needs to prove he deserves the starting spot and can regain his previous form.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: 4 Commanders with the most to prove during training camp
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