In August, expectations for the 2026 Washington Commanders began to shift. While many believed the Commanders would compete for a playoff spot, an injury to left tackle Laremy Tunsil changed some of their outlook for Washington. One persistent issue for the Commanders was the center position. Nick Allegretti, already a question mark, missed all of training camp, and his backups caused plenty of angst for Washington fans.
In Sunday’s Week 1 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, almost every analyst said Philly’s dominant defensive line against the Commanders’ questionable offensive line would be the difference-maker. While the Eagles won 24-22, it wasn’t because of Washington’s offensive line.
Sure, the Commanders allowed some pressure, much
of it because quarterback Jayden Daniels had to hold the ball because no receivers were open. He was sacked only once. Right guard Sam Cosmi was particularly impressive. In 38 snaps of pass protection, Cosmi did not allow a single pressure. He was the only Washington offensive lineman not to allow a single pressure. It’s even more impressive when you consider the players Cosmi often faced, like defensive tackle Jalen Carter.
Cosmi’s work on Sunday earned him some massive praise, including from NFL analyst and former NFL offensive lineman Brian Baldinger.
.@Commanders @Eagles @SamCosmi helluva effort by this group and especially Cosmi going up against Carter....Not many OG's in this business can stop Carter 1 on 1. #BaldysBreakdowns pic.twitter.com/TEUz7K0hNr
— Brian Baldinger (@BaldyNFL) September 14, 2026
The praise for Cosmi wasn’t done. Brandon Thorn is an offensive line expert who writes for several outlets, including his own newsletter, “Trench Warfare,” where he strictly evaluates offensive and defensive line play. Check out what Thorn had to say about Cosmi’s Week 1 performance.
Sam Cosmi had the best tape of any OL I've seen from Week 1. He put Jalen Carter in Alcatraz whenever they faced off 1v1. Stack this on top of his awesome performances vs. him in 2024 as well. ELITE. pic.twitter.com/C2pspIo52Z
— Brandon Thorn (@BrandonThornNFL) September 14, 2026
Cosmi "put Jalen Carter in Alcatraz." That’s massive praise.
The sixth-year pro from Texas is often praised as one of the NFL’s better guards, but has yet to receive the national recognition he deserves. Could this be the year? If Cosmi can remain healthy, the sky is the limit.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Commanders' Sam Cosmi had Eagles' star 'in Alcatraz' in Week 1
