The Commanders released their Week 1 depth chart in advance of Sunday’s divisional matchup with the Giants. While most of the starters fell as expected, several details are worth highlighting as the season begins.
Josh Conerly Jr. steps into a tough first assignment It’s no surprise that the first-round rookie is starting at right tackle — he earned that job throughout the summer. The bigger question is how he’ll handle a Giants pass rush that brings consistent pressure off the edge. Week 1 offers as good a test as any to see how quickly Conerly can translate his preseason promise into regular-season reliability.
Right guard rotation holding down the fort With Sam Cosmi sidelined, the Commanders will lean on Nick Allegretti and Andrew Wylie to cover the right guard spot. Both bring starting experience and should give the line a steady presence, but this is very much a short-term solution until Cosmi returns. The real test will come against New York’s interior, where pressure up the middle could disrupt rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels early.
Jacory Croskey-Merritt was listed fourth at running back On paper, Austin Ekeler, Jeremy McNichols, and Chris Rodriguez Jr. sit ahead of Croskey-Merritt. Given how well Merritt performed in camp and preseason — to the point of helping push Brian Robinson Jr. off the roster — his placement at No. 4 is curious. Depth charts don’t always reflect actual usage, and it’s fair to question whether this slotting means much once the game kicks off. His performance has likely earned him snaps, regardless of where he’s listed.
Return duties emphasize explosiveness Special teams assignments highlight the Commanders’ intent to generate big plays. Rookie Jaylin Lane will handle punt returns, while Deebo Samuel Sr. takes kickoffs. Lane brings quickness and agility, and Samuel’s proven ability with the ball in his hands makes both roles potentially game-changing.
Overall outlook Washington’s Week 1 depth chart blends expected stability with a few underlying storylines. Conerly gets an early measuring stick against a fierce pass rush, Allegretti and Wylie are tasked with keeping the line afloat until Cosmi returns, and Croskey-Merritt’s spot on paper may not tell the whole story. Combined with a new-look return game, the Commanders head into New York with several intriguing dynamics to watch.
Conor Forrest is the Editor-in-Chief and Senior Commanders Insider for SportsJourney.com. As a graduate of George Mason University, Forrest has spent the last eight years sharing his love for sports with listeners and viewers in the DC area and around the world. He hosts the “After Further Review Podcast” and has held numerous on-air and writing roles covering the DC area sports, Division 1 Basketball, and the NFL. His work has been featured on outlets like NBC Sports Washington, Fansided.com, Heavy.com and The Fourth Estate.
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