Football is getting closer. The next stage of preparations for the 2025 campaign begins this week when the Washington Commanders come together for their annual mandatory minicamp. And there is a lot at stake for those looking to stake a claim for prominent involvement.
This is the last chance they'll get to impress before training camp. Adam Peters will be watching developments closely, and he won't hesitate to bring more changes to the squad if he isn't entirely satisfied with how things are unfolding.
There's a flip side to this coin. The Commanders have raised competition across the board this offseason. Everything will be earned, and the best players will make the roster. Previous reputations and accomplishments don't matter. It's a clean slate for everyone, which is the best way to approach things as Washington looks to maintain its newfound standards next time.
Players will rise and fall. Some will excel in the pressure cooker and be rewarded accordingly. Others will not meet expectations and be demoted or cast aside entirely. And make no mistake — every rep counts under this coaching staff.
With this in mind, here are seven Commanders players who could flip the depth chart upside down at mandatory minicamp.
Commanders players who could flip the depth chart upside down at 2025 minicamp
Ja'Corey Brooks - Commanders WR
Finding a spot in the wide receiver room is a tough ask for anyone on the fringes. The Washington Commanders have an embarrassment of riches at the position, which is going to help quarterback Jayden Daniels immensely as he looks to build on a sensational rookie campaign.
It'll be difficult, but not impossible. Ja'Corey Brooks will be someone worth watching over Washington's mandatory minicamp. And the undrafted free agent hasn't come just to make up the numbers.
Brooks failed to hear his name called during the 2025 NFL Draft despite an outstanding final college campaign at Louisville. The Commanders moved swiftly to get him on board when the undrafted free-agent frenzy began. He's used this chip on his shoulder well so far, performing well in early workouts to catch the eye enough to raise intrigue.
This is a positive first step for Brooks, but what comes next is more important. The wideout needs to keep up these strong performances when things get more intense over the summer. This starts at mandatory minicamp, and the margin for error remains razor-thin.
There is momentum on Brooks' side. If he can build upon it over minicamp, he'll have a fighting chance when training camp rolls around.