The Washington Commanders have undergone massive changes since January. They began with the firing of former head coach Ron Rivera and the hiring of general manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn.
Peters wrecked Washington’s roster, signing over 20 external free agents in the offseason and adding nine draft picks and 12 undrafted free agents. Hardly anyone was safe, which became evident this week when the Commanders traded former first-round pick Jahan Dotson to the Philadelphia Eagles.
On Tuesday, Peters must trim Washington’s roster to 53 players. But before that, the Commanders have one final preseason game against the New England Patriots on Sunday. We’ve identified seven players who need a strong performance against the Patriots in order to stick around beyond Tuesday.
Washington Commanders running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. (23) carries the ball during the first half against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
The 2023 sixth-round pick looked like a lock before training camp. Rodriguez impressed last season when he received opportunities. However, this summer, veteran Jeremy McNichols and undrafted rookie Michael Wiley appear ahead of Rodriguez on the depth chart. Rodriguez proved he could play last season, but Washington could be looking for more from the position.
Michael Wiley scores a Commander TD in the second half as the Washington Commanders came to MetLife Stadium to play the New York Jets in the first press season game of the 2024 season. The Jets topped the Commanders 20-17.
Wiley quietly signed with the Commanders as an undrafted free agent from Arizona. Back in May, no one gave him a chance at making Washington’s roster. However, he impressed throughout training camp, and in the first two preseason games, Wiley stood out in multiple areas. He showed coaches he could catch passes out of the backfield and, most importantly, embraced pass protection. It will be interesting to see how offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury splits up the running back snaps on Sunday.
Washington Commanders wide receiver Brycen Tremayne (89) catches a pass on day three of training camp at Commanders Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Tremayne has been on the bubble throughout training camp. His size and ability to make plays down the field have earned him praise throughout the offseason and in training camp. Tremayne’s size makes him an intriguing option to keep. What Tremayne needs is a strong performance in the preseason finale.
Washington Commanders wide receiver Mitchell Tinsley (86) catches a pass over Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Allan George (42) during the second half at FedExField. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Tinsley made Washington’s roster last summer as an undrafted free agent. He didn’t get the opportunity to show what he could do last season. Now, he’s again battling to make the roster; this time, he must impress a new set of coaches. Tinsley has had another good summer. He has yet to stick out in the preseason games, something that helped him earn a spot last summer. Dotson’s trade helps Tinsley’s chances, but he has a lot of work to do.
Cole Turner #85 of the Washington Commanders celebrates after a play during the second quarter against the Washington Commanders at Empower Field At Mile High on September 17, 2023 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Jamie Schwaberow/Getty Images)
Cole Turner has had another good training camp. Most importantly, he’s remained healthy. In last week’s preseason game, Turner didn’t help himself, seeing one pass go through his hands for an interception. One play isn’t going to impact Turner’s chances, but a good finale could solidify his spot. Turner needs to start showing up in games. If Washington keeps four tight ends, Turner will be safe.
Darrick Forrest #22 of the Washington Commanders reacts after an interception in the fourth quarter of a game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on November 20, 2022 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
We never thought Forrest would be on this list. Unfortunately, he battled an injury throughout training camp, which put him behind others, including undrafted rookie Tyler Owens. Forrest is a good player. He has proven to be a capable starting safety and a standout on special teams. Forrest could use a strong performance to show the coaching staff he belongs.
Tyler Owens #40 of the Washington Commanders (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images)
We think Owens is safe. He’s flashed multiple times in each of the first two preseason games. He is still developing at safety but has proven he can star on special teams immediately. His length and athleticism are unique. If he plays, he’ll find a way to stand out because that’s been the trend all summer. A strong finish to the preseason could seal things for Owens.
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