Eagles vs. Commanders: 6 under-the-radar threats to watch in Week 1

The rivalry between the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Commanders has produced plenty of memorable moments over the years. Sunday’s meeting marks the 184th chapter in a series that has survived franchise relocations, name changes, Hall of Fame players, and even postseason matchups.

Everyone knows the headline names for this. Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, Jayden Daniels, Terry McLaurin, and Zack Baun are the owners of a few. Discussions about each will dominate much of the conversation leading into kickoff.

But divisional games are rarely decided solely by stars. More often than not, someone operating just outside the spotlight makes the play that changes everything. Here are six Commanders who could become unexpected factors in Week 1. The Eagles have no doubt mentioned these guys in meetings. Now, it’s our turn.

When Washington acquired Chig Okonkwo, the hope was that a change of scenery could unlock more of the potential that earned him PFWA All-Rookie Team honors with the Tennessee Titans in 2022. The production has been respectable rather than spectacular. Okonkwo enters his fifth NFL season with 194 receptions, 2,017 receiving yards, and eight touchdown catches.

Still, his athleticism and ability to stretch the middle of the field make him an intriguing weapon. Philadelphia enters the season with questions at safety, making Okonkwo a player worth monitoring. Expect Washington to test the Eagles’ second level early and often.

Brown’s first stint in Washington never fully took off, but the Commanders brought him back after a one-year stop with the Jacksonville Jaguars. His career numbers won’t intimidate anyone — 79 catches, 1,011 yards, and five touchdowns across 77 games — but that’s exactly what makes him dangerous.

Defenses will naturally focus on McLaurin, Stefon Diggs, and rookie Antonio Williams. That can create opportunities for a fourth receiver capable of slipping behind coverage or converting a key third down. Brown isn’t likely to headline the game, but he could absolutely influence it. Remember, sometimes it’s the forgotten guy who makes the play that upsets the apple cart.

There’s something uncomfortable about facing a talented rookie in his NFL debut. Washington spent significant draft capital on Williams because they believe he can become a difference-maker.

While coaches and scouts have plenty of college tape to study, there are still unknowns surrounding how the Commanders plan to deploy him. Philadelphia’s secondary is among the league’s best on paper. Still, Williams represents the type of wild card who can create an unexpected splash play before defenses fully understand how to defend him.

Most of the attention surrounding Washington’s backfield centers on Jacory Croskey-Merritt, but White remains a versatile weapon capable of creating problems in multiple ways. The former Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back has scored 25 career touchdowns, including 11 as a receiver. If the Commanders struggle to establish a traditional rushing attack, White could become an extension of the passing game.

Linebackers and safeties will need to know where he is at all times.

Washington’s cornerback room enters the season with questions, but there is enough talent there to create problems if things break correctly. Sainristil continues to develop into a versatile defensive back, while Douglas remains a familiar face to Eagles fans.

The veteran corner enjoyed one of the best stretches of his career in Philadelphia. After moving on in 2021, he notched five interceptions and a league-high pair of pick-sixes.

The challenge facing both players is significant. They’ll be tasked with slowing an Eagles offense loaded with skill-position talent while simultaneously adjusting to Sean Mannion’s new system. If Washington is going to pull off an upset, this group will likely need to exceed expectations.

Few Commanders players enter the season with more to prove than Kinlaw. Washington committed significant resources to acquire him, signing the defensive lineman to a lucrative contract that raised eyebrows throughout the league. His first season in the nation’s capital did little to silence critics after he failed to record a sack.

That doesn’t mean he’s incapable of impacting a game. Kinlaw, Daron Payne, and Tim Settle give Washington plenty of size and power on the interior. The Eagles possess one of the NFL’s premier offensive lines, but interior pressure can disrupt even elite offenses.

Week 1 rarely unfolds exactly the way anyone expects. Stars will make plays because that’s what stars do, but rivalry games often feature a surprise contributor who alters the outcome.

The Eagles know the names at the top of Washington’s roster. Keeping these lesser-discussed Commanders from becoming major storylines could be just as important to securing a season-opening victory.

This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles vs. Commanders: 6 under-the-radar threats to watch in Week 1