Rookie running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt took center stage during the Washington Commanders' opening weekend victory over the New York Giants. But it's another member of the 2025 draft class who could be far more important to the team's chances in Week 2.
The Commanders had little time to prepare for their trip to the Green Bay Packers on Thursday Night Football. There were some things to clean up, so it's a journey into the unknown with no real practice time. But make no mistake, beating an NFC playoff rival on the road would be a statement that proves Washington's sensational run in 2024 wasn't just a fleeting moment of joy.
Much has been made about the need to contain Green Bay's vaunted defense, which recently acquired All-Pro edge rusher Micah Parsons in a bombshell trade. But if the Commanders want to stand any chance of emerging victorious, they must contain the Packers' passing attack.
Commanders need Trey Amos to show out against the Packers' passing attack
Despite Christian Watson still working his way back from injury, the Packers have some outstanding receiver weapons for quarterback Jordan Love to depend upon. Jayden Reed is their slot demon, Romeo Doubs provides a downfield threat, and Matthew Golden is their rookie phenom capable of impacting proceedings all over the field.
The Commanders' secondary must be ready. They did a tremendous job of containing the Giants' wideouts in Week 1. This represents a tougher test entirely. Four-time Pro Bowl corner Marshon Lattimore leads the charge, but second-round pick Trey Amos must also step up.
Amos left an immensely positive impression over the summer. He was solid if not spectacular on debut, making a difference against the run and holding his own in coverage despite giving up three receptions. His 57.8 coverage grade from Pro Football Focus ranked 69th out of 113 qualifying cornerbacks. That's a fair reflection of the tape, so improvements are needed in no uncertain terms.
Whether it's Doubs or Golden, the Ole Miss product must be ready. Lattimore looked back to his lockdown self versus Malik Nabers in Week 1. That could see the Packers target Amos as a potential weak link, especially with Mike Sainristil shutting down the slot.
This shouldn't be lost on Amos. It's the most testing challenge of his credentials since joining the Commanders in a hostile atmosphere. If he can pass this test with flying colors, there will be more than a few teams around the league wondering just how he managed to fall into Washington's hands at No. 61 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft.
It's a high-stakes situation for Amos with the entire NFL world watching. But he's going to relish every moment.
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