Commanders Rookie Power Rankings: Sonny Styles Proving First-Round Value

Sports admin September 16, 2026 0 Comments

Commanders Rookie Power Rankings: Sonny Styles Proving First-Round Value

The Washington Commanders did not have the most expansive or flashiest rookie class in 2026. Sonny Styles in the first round was the obvious choice and he has done nothing but grind and compete in every opportunity given. Most of the additions to the team came through free agency but the few rookies that were given the chance to play during Week 1 have shown why they were selected to join the team.

1. LB Sonny Styles

Whether he lined up on the line or in the box, Styles quickly proved why quarterbacks need to account for him on every play. Recording one sack and two tackles for loss, Styles’ elite physicality and dominance were on full display.

Styles still has some work to do when dropping back into coverage. During Dallas Goedert’s 43-yard touchdown reception, Styles had some difficulty communicating during pre-snap movements, allowing for Goedert to slip by unmarked.

2. WR Antonio Williams

The leading receiver for the Commanders, Williams hauled in a touchdown during the fourth quarter that would have tied the game if not for the failed two-point conversion. With four receptions on four targets, Williams was flawless throughout the day. His longest catch of 33 yards saw him cut all the way across the field to the opposite sideline, a route he ran countless times during his time at Clemson.

3. K Drew Stevens

After connecting on a 55-yard field goal on the opening drive, the years-long struggle of finding a solid kicker seemed to be over, but the issues arose later in the day. A blocked extra point and missed field goal would have been enough for the Commanders to pull off the upset in Philadelphia. Unfortunately, because of these earlier miscues, Washington had to adjust its plans late in the game to try and tie it instead of adding to a lead.

4. EDGE Joshua Josephs

Josephs did not see much time on the field unfortunately. When he does get on the field, his impressive wingspan will show why physical stature is so important for edge rushers. If Daronte Jones can keep up his high blitz rate, then Josephs will have the opportunity to play higher than his fifth round value.

5. RB Kaytron Allen

Unfortunately, success on the ground was difficult for all three running backs that Washington deployed. Kaytron Allen rushed for 16 yards on four carries with his longest being just five yards. Not used in many short-yardage situations like many predicted, Allen was not used to the best of his abilities.

This story was originally published September 16, 2026 at 5:13 PM.