The Washington Commanders open the 2022 season Sunday as they host the Jacksonville Jaguars from FedEx Field.
Week 1 marks the debut for new Commanders quarterback Carson Wentz. He isn’t the only new Commander, as first-round wide receiver Jahan Dotson will appear in his first NFL game. Unfortunately, Washington will be without rookie running back Brian Robinson Jr., who is out for at least the first four games after suffering gunshot wounds during an attempted robbery last month.
Here are five Washington players to watch in the Week 1 matchup against the Jaguars.
QB Carson Wentz
All eyes will be on Wentz Sunday. Not only is this his first game with Washington, but there is also a leaguewide perception that his best days are behind him. The Commanders believe in Wentz, and he’s ready to exact some revenge against Jacksonville after his Week 18 performance last season.
RB Antonio Gibson
Antonio Gibson has a second opportunity to remind everyone of his value as a running back. Gibson was essentially passed on the depth chart by rookie Brian Robinson Jr. in the preseason after a fumble in the preseason opener. Unfortunately, Robinson’s absence opens the door for Gibson. Gibson was always going to remain a critical part of the offense, but with Robinson out, he will be a focal point.
DE Montez Sweat
This should be Montez Sweat’s year. The fourth-year defensive end had a difficult 2021 season, both on and off the field. Sweat broke his jaw in Week 8, missing several weeks. He also went through the tragic loss of his brother late in the season. Coaches and teammates believe Sweat is on the verge of a huge year. It begins in Week 1. The Commanders need Sweat to provide the pass rush until Chase Young returns.
LB Jamin Davis
Second-year linebacker Jamin Davis is a critical piece for Washington’s 2022 defense. The Commanders need Davis to become the player they believed he could be when selecting him at No. 19 overall in the 2021 NFL draft. He had a good training camp and preseason. Now, it’s time to see if transitions to the regular season.
S Darrick Forrest
Safety Darrick Forrest has a huge opportunity in front of him in Week 1. With Kam Curl out with a thumb injury, Forrest is expected to start at strong safety for the Commanders. The coaches are excited about Forrest, who also had a strong summer. If Forrest excels in Curl’s absence, it will earn him more opportunities once Curl returns. Forrest is one of the players expected to work as Washington’s Buffalo nickel this season.
