The Washington Commanders got a chance to perform under the national spotlight in their final exhibition game against the New England Patriots. Majority owner Josh Harris spent time before the game showing the media around the improved facility. Fans got a chance to see how those on the fringes were faring with head coach Dan Quinn resting his starters for the clash.

This was the last chance the Warriors had to stake a claim for a roster spot. There were some good moments and some bad ones for good measure, but the Commanders pulled out a morale-boosting win on home soil before turning their attention to the final cuts and Week 1 at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Adam Peters faces some tough decisions. Some seem easier than others, but Preseason Week 3 gave the new general manager another important evaluation tool to fall back on as he prepares for some tough conversations in the days ahead.

That said, here are three winners and two losers from Washington’s preseason win over the Patriots.

Winner #1

KJ Henry – Commanders DE

The Washington Commanders need one of their pass rushers to take a step forward and become a strong competitor to free-agent acquisition Dorance Armstrong Jr. Clelin Ferrell and Dante Fowler Jr. may be the driving force behind the move, but the continued improvement of KJ Henry gives the coaching staff plenty to think about.

Henry has been a revelation this summer. He shined when the reps finally arrived last season and is eager to put that new experience to use. The former fifth-round pick out of Clemson made another notable impression in Washington’s final preseason game, recording a devastating sack on ex-Commanders quarterback Jacoby Brissett and consistently causing disruption down the field.

There is no doubt that Henry’s roster status is secure. That is not up for debate. However, the player’s performance levels under the new coaching regime could lead to a potential starting role if the same trend continues during the regular season.