Three Takeaways From Commanders First Depth Chart Iteration

With their first preseason game on the near horizon, the Washington Commanders are starting to narrow down who will take the field as starters as opposed to backups.

Upon first glance, three things stand out instantly: Jacory Croskey-Merritt leads the running back room, Luke McCaffrey edges out Jaylin Lane for the final starting wide receiver spot, three starting defensive tackles are listed with others as outside linebackers.

Worth noting is that this recent release is not what the final depth chart will look like, but after numerous signings and injuries, it provides a glimpse into what the future holds for Washington.

Jacory Croskey-Merritt leads the pack

After a strong end to his rookie year, the former seventh-round pick looked to be one of the biggest steals of the 2025 draft. Going into this season, he'll be splitting time with Rachaad White as one of the primary backs in Washington. Jeremy McNichols and Kaytron Allen are both listed as the No. 3 back, with Jerome Ford and Robert Henry Jr. listed as the No. 4 back. With six guys currently on the roster, expect one or two to be cut by Week 1. Ford stands out as the least likely to make the roster, with Henry Jr. earning a spot on the practice squad.

Luke McCaffrey earns No. 3 receiver position

The signing of Stefon Diggs clears up the No. 2 wide receiver position, but after that, questions continue to arise. Outside of Terry McLaurin and Diggs, this position group will operate in a very fluid manner with so many different skill sets and experience levels. Count on this final starting role to fluctuate as Antonio Williams gets live reps in the preseason and Dyami Brown rebuilds his chemistry with Jayden Daniels. Carrying five to six receivers at a given moment, the Commanders will have to cut their current group in half by Week 1.