3 Commanders who have everything to play for in preseason finale

2. Jeremy Reaves, S

The Commanders’ safety room has quietly developed into a potential strength amid solid training camp and preseason play from second-year player Darrick Forrest, rookie Percy Butler, recent signing Steven Parker and the inevitable Jeremy Reaves. So much so, in fact, that the coaching staff will undoubtedly have a tough time deciding who misses the final cut on the 53-man roster.

The first four spots are locked up with Bobby McCain, Kam Curl, Forrest and Butler, but Washington could justify carrying a fifth safety if it goes short at cornerback. That leaves Parker and Reaves as the most likely contenders.

It’s become an inside joke amongst fans how long Reaves has lasted in Washington, but he’s deserved those opportunities.

The coaching staff, Ron Rivera included, appreciates Reaves’ physicality and he’s made a signature play in each preseason game thus far, including a sack against Carolina and a textbook tackle to blow up a Chiefs running play.

We all know Washington champions versatility in its defenders, and Reaves is lacking in that department relative to Parker, who’s lined up in the box, at safety and in the slot in preseason. Reaves has played primarily at free safety.

In the event that’s used against him, the 25-year-old safety needs another statement game against Baltimore.