5 Commanders who could be shocking cuts if training camp turns ugly

The offseason program is in the books, and the Washington Commanders are now turning their attention to what promises to be a fascinating training camp for all involved. And the stakes couldn't be higher.

Washington took the NFL by storm last season. It quickly became a miraculous turnaround that saw this perennial bottom-feeder come from nowhere into legitimate Super Bowl contention. That was beyond anyone's wildest dreams, but what comes next is more important.

Maintaining these high standards is trickier. Much trickier.

Dan Quinn's squad won't be a surprise this time around. They are among the favorites to win it all, which brings raised expectations that must be matched. Urgency in the building remains high, and the page has been turned. Anyone not pulling their weight could be facing a precarious future.

Adam Peters is a cutthroat roster builder. The general manager's got no problem disposing of established veterans if he feels like it will benefit the franchise. He's all about rewarding those who prove their worth, and it's a big reason why the Commanders achieved so much in Year 1 under his leadership.

With this in mind, here are five Commanders players who could be shocking cut candidates if things turn ugly for them at training camp.

Commanders players who could be shocking cuts if training camp turns ugly

Michael Gallup - Commanders WR

This would be the least shocking cut on the list. However, it would be bitterly disappointing nonetheless.

The Washington Commanders gave Michael Gallup a chance to resume his NFL journey this offseason. He retired last summer after losing motivation for the game following his release by the Dallas Cowboys. Some time away to reflect and refocus saw his eagerness to compete return.

Gallup is confident that the Commanders are the right environment to flourish. The wideout knows Dan Quinn well from their time together in Dallas, which provides an added sense of security en route to potentially establishing himself on the offensive rotation. Unfortunately for the pass-catcher, his early transition suffered a bump in the road.

There was no sign of Gallup during Washington's mandatory minicamp. It was later revealed that the player was dealing with a hamstring injury that the coaching staff decided not to risk. Although they made the right call, it already places him firmly on the back foot.

Unless Gallup hits the ground running and avoids more injury issues at training camp, the Commanders could easily cut him loose. Something that would probably spell the end of his NFL dream for good.

Nick Bellore - Commanders LB

Nick Bellore's influence often goes unnoticed. That comes with the territory of being a special-teams ace, but it's something he's come to accept.

The Washington Commanders acknowledged his sterling efforts with a new two-year deal this offseason. It's a big commitment given Bellore is entering Year 15 and recently turned 36 years old. There wasn't much to suggest he was slowing down last season, but Father Time catches up with everyone eventually.

Bellore's main objective this summer will be keeping some young hopefuls at arm's length. Jordan Magee is gaining rave reviews over Washington's offseason program. The coaching staff believes Kain Medrano's athleticism can help on special teams until the rookie linebacker rectifies certain flaws in his game. Several other explosive players also look capable of carving out roles in this overlooked yet key discipline.

While Bellore doesn't appear in any real danger, it's something to monitor. He's got experience on his side. He's also a two-time special-teams Pro Bowler, which stands him in extremely good stead.

The veteran is accomplished, and the fire still burns within. But if the same trend doesn't continue, and more dynamic youngsters thrive, it might provoke a discussion at the very least.

Nick Allegretti - Commanders OL

The Commanders' offensive line dynamic has taken a seismic shift this offseason. Adam Peters recognized the need to bolster the protection in front of star quarterback Jayden Daniels. Fans quickly figured out that this was his biggest priority above all else.

Washington caused a massive stir by trading for five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil. If that wasn't enough, the Commanders also took Josh Conerly Jr. at No. 29 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft.

This new bookend tackle tandem involved some moving around for others. Brandon Coleman is switching inside to the left guard spot. That was previously held by Nick Allegretti, who now faces the prospect of competing for the vacant right guard position until Sam Cosmi returns from a torn ACL.

Allegretti joined the Commanders in 2024 after helping the Kansas City Chiefs win the Super Bowl. He performed well enough, but not well enough to guarantee his spot this time around.

The former Illinois standout will get the first chance to win the job. Anything less than accomplished production could see others step up to take his place.

That would be an alarming development, but it couldn't be completely ruled out unless Allegretti's performance levels match the price tag.

Jacob Martin - Commanders DE/OLB

Not many fans are satisfied with the Washington Commanders' pass-rushing options heading into the 2025 season. Adam Peters holds a different opinion, and he's willing to see how things unfold over the opening stages of camp before deciding on anything further.

That's a big vote of confidence in the options already around and those who joined the ranks this offseason. Jacob Martin is one of them, who's got the physical profile to be a ready-made replacement for Dante Fowler Jr. after he bolted for the Dallas Cowboys in free agency.

The former sixth-round pick out of Temple has been a journeyman throughout his career. Martin's had trouble sticking anywhere aside from his three years with the Houston Texans. Asking him to become a core rotational piece in Washington is a stretch, but those in power still see some untapped potential in the 29-year-old.

Martin has a legitimate shot, but it doesn't come with any guarantees whatsoever. His one-year deal is pretty easy to get off, so avoiding complacency at all costs is crucial. Anything less could potentially come with detrimental ramifications attached.

The early signs were relatively positive for Martin. No pass-rusher blew media members away over Washington's offseason program. However, there's still time when things get more intense.

Austin Ekeler - Commanders RB

Austin Ekeler's first season in Washington was pretty solid overall. The running back was never going to shoulder the sort of responsibilities he generated with the Los Angeles Chargers. But that's exactly what the veteran wanted to prolong his career.

Ekeler emerged as a decent pass-catching option out of the backfield. He earned second-team All-Pro honors as a kick returner, and his leadership in the locker room represented another significant asset to call upon. Even so, some obvious negatives left many fans clamoring for change in the backfield.

The former undrafted free agent's costly fumble in the NFC Championship game left a sour taste in the mouth. Ekeler also dealt with some concerning concussion issues, so there's just no telling what another devastating hit will do. He's carrying on, which is fine, but the Commanders will keep a close eye on developments over camp.

Washington spent its seventh-round selection on Jacory Croskey-Merritt. He's got the look of a massive steal and wants to impact the running back rotation immediately. Unless Ekeler responds positively, his place would be more under threat than Brian Robinson Jr.'s right now.

Considering the Commanders now have Luke McCaffrey and Jaylin Lane to handle kick-return duties, Ekeler might become surplus to requirements when push comes to shove.

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