Overview
- The team finalized its initial 53-man roster over the weekend without adding a veteran center, leaving Nick Allegretti as the presumed starter with limited practice reps and rookie Matt Gulbin as the primary backup.
- All-Pro left tackle Laremy Tunsil’s torn triceps in training camp forced lineup shifts that reduced guard depth and increased pressure on the interior line to perform.
- Washington’s backups at center, Julian Good-Jones and Matt Gulbin, combined for only a handful of career snaps and struggled in joint practices and a 41-3 preseason loss when the line allowed three sacks.
- Other clubs used the roster-cut window to acquire experienced centers such as Sedrick Van Pran-Granger and Jarrett Patterson, a move analysts say Washington should have matched with a low-cost trade or waiver claim.
- If Allegretti misses time, the lack of proven depth could quickly affect quarterback Jayden Daniels’ protection and the Commanders’ early-season offense, so analysts expect the front office may still pursue short-term interior help.