This Commanders veteran is entering training camp with his job on the line

It was refreshing to see general manager Adam Peters place so much faith in Jayden Daniels this offseason. The Washington Commanders didn't get complacent despite the dynamic quarterback's meteoric rise to superstardom as a rookie. Instead, they moved heaven and earth to surround him with the improved supporting cast needed to flourish further.

That was the correct approach. For Peters, this rightfully started with a drastic regeneration across the offensive trenches.

The Commanders traded for Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil. They spent the No. 29 overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft on Josh Conerly Jr. Others will move around, with Brandon Coleman switching inside to the left guard position previously held by Nick Allegretti.

This provides more long-term upside for the Commanders. It also means Allegretti enters this summer's training camp with his job on the line.

Nick Allegretti must adjust quickly to Commanders' position shift

Allegretti joined the Commanders last spring after a standout playoff run with the Kansas City Chiefs. The three-year, $16 million deal came with a $5.89 million signing bonus and $9.02 million guaranteed, which was a lofty commitment for someone who's been a backup for most of his career.

More importantly for Allegretti, it gave him the chance to prove himself as a viable starting option. He was solid if not spectacular, giving up three sacks and seven penalties en route to a modest 61.7 overall grade from Pro Football Focus.

The former Illinois standout displayed vulnerability in pass protection in key moments. Allegretti's production waned as the campaign wore on, which led the Commanders to shift course. Although disappointing, there is one important factor that could be his saving grace when it's all said and done.

Sam Cosmi is going to miss a large portion of the 2025 campaign as he recovers from a torn ACL. The Commanders need an experienced presence to fill the void, especially considering rookie first-rounder Josh Conerly Jr. is projected to start at right tackle. Allegretti will get the first shot, but Andrew Wylie might also harbor ambitions of securing the spot rather than accepting a role as the team's swing tackle.

This will be an interesting dynamic to watch when the tension ramps up at Washington's training camp. Allegretti might have lost his preferred place in the lineup, but if he can adjust effectively and display the characteristics that attracted the Commanders last year, all hope is not lost just yet.

Anything less comes with potentially severe consequences attached.

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