The Washington Commanders 2026 camp battles feature real competition at multiple spots. The roster has some interesting areas that will seek resolution at Ashburn. Here’s where jobs remain interesting or even unsettled.
Left Guard
Chris Paul and Brandon Coleman are battling again for the starting job. Paul ultimately won the role last year and developed strong chemistry with left tackle Laremy Tunsil. Coleman may be more athletic but missed most of last camp with injuries. Head coach Dan Quinn confirmed the two remain in direct competition entering camp. It’s arguably the match-up with the least gap between incumbents.
Center
Nick Allegretti holds the early edge at center after 39 career starts, though only four came at the position. He calls center his natural spot, and the team values his leadership. Julian Good-Jones will be behind him throughout camp, but Allegretti’s experience gives him a clear advantage heading into the season. This is likely the only spot that may still not have it’s starter on the roster.
Cornerback
The cornerback spot opposite Trey Amos remains genuinely open. New defensive coordinator Daronte Jones hasn’t tipped his hand yet. Mike Sainristil, Amik Robertson, and free-agent signing Rasul Douglas are all competing for reps, with Amos still working back from a fractured fibula suffered in 2025.
Safety
Washington’s safety room carries real uncertainty. Nick Cross arrives as a new addition, while Will Harris will likely fill the other. Quan Martin, Percy Butler, Tyler Owens and Jeremy Reaves all compete for snaps behind them. Reaves, long known for special-teams play, is pushing hardest for a bigger defensive role. Quinn praised his effort directly:
“He has earned the right to have these reps.” — Dan Quinn
Butler and Owens are excellent special teams players.
Running Back
No running back has a locked-in role. Jacory Croskey-Merritt enters as the presumed starter after rushing for 805 yards in seven starts as a rookie. But Washington added veterans Rachaad White and Jerome Ford, plus rookie Kaytron Allen, and holdover Jeremy McNichols, creating a genuinely crowded backfield.
White has established himself as a solid receiving back, and he will see a lot of playing time.
The biggest question might just be whether they keep four backs or five. Could one end up on the practice squad?
David Blough’s run-heavy scheme raises the stakes for whoever wins the job.
Why It Matters
These five Commanders 2026 camp battles are great places to watch through the upcoming Training Camp. Hopefully the competition brings out the best in all of these players, and puts the best possible product on the field.
Rookies report to Training Camp on July 24th, and veterans report on July 28th. Camp itself starts on July 29th.