The Washington Commanders had plenty of positives to take away from their preseason matchup against the Detroit Lions. While the first-team defense made an immediate impact, several young players also made strong cases for bigger roles as the regular season approaches.

Here are several Commanders players who stood out against Detroit.

Washington's first-team defense came out rocking, forcing two turnovers on the Detroit Lions' first two drives.

New Commanders cornerback Amik Robertson delivered a hit stick on quarterback Joshua Dobbs, forcing a fumble that rookie Joshua Josephs recovered in the end zone for six. It marked Robertson's first game back in Detroit since leaving the Lions in free agency for Washington. As for Josephs, he's been making plenty of noise during training camp, so it was good to see him carry that momentum into real NFL action.

On the next drive, free safety Quan Martin came way with yet another interception after recording one last week against the Miami Dolphins. It's an encouraging sign for Martin, who is looking to bounce back after struggling last season. He allowed a 154.6 passer rating when targeted.

Commanders third-year linebacker Javontae Jean-Baptiste had an impressive afternoon against Detroit. The former Notre Dame linebacker recorded a sack, quarterback hit and tackle for loss. 

Jean-Baptiste is currently expected to serve as the third-string outside linebacker behind Joshua Josephs, while Odafe Oweh is projected to start. His performance is another example of the depth Washington has in its outside linebacker room.

Jean-Baptiste missed much of the 2025 season after appearing in just three games. He only recorded one sack and six total tackles. Hopefully, his strong outing against Detroit is a sign of what's to come this season and, most importantly, that he can stay healthy.

Undrafted rookie wide receiver Jaden Bradley had one of the best catches of the NFL preseason against Detroit. The former DeMatha Catholic standout made an incredible one-handed, 30-yard catch while being interfered by the defender, making the grab even more impressive. Bradley finished the game with 2 receptions for 42 yards.

Bradley has stood out throughout training camp and even received high praise from star wide receiver Terry McLaurin. The two-time Pro-Bowler called him a "sponge" and said the rookie has a "pro-like feel." While the former UNLV star faces an uphill battle to make the 53-man roster because of Washington's crowded receiver room, a performance like that could help his case.

Rookie quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis had himself yet another strong preseason outing. The seventh-round pick finished the game with 162 passing yards and completed nearly 80 percent of his throws.

The "Greek Rifle" had two passes that went for 55 and 30 yards. He also lead two drives that resulted in field goals. Last week, he led the Commanders with 87 passings yards while completing 60 percent of his passes.

This is yet another week in which Kaliakmanis has made the case to be the QB3 in DC.