5 Commanders players who likely played their final game with the team
By Justin Fried
4. J.D. McKissic, RB, Commanders
J.D. McKissic is one of the most well-liked players in that Commanders’ locker room. McKissic loves Washington, and the organization has treated him with equal admiration.
It’s why McKissic reversed course and decided to turn down the Buffalo Bills this past offseason in favor of the same deal from the Commanders. He has a lot of supporters in that building.
Unfortunately, McKissic’s injury history has to be a concern at this stage. The veteran running back has now suffered season-ending neck injuries in consecutive seasons, and his NFL future might legitimately be in doubt.
McKissic has served a valuable role as a very capable third-down, pass-catching back over the last three seasons in Washington, but his time with the organization might be coming to an end.
The Commanders could cut McKissic and save $1.23 million this offseason. It’s not a lot, but it’s fair to question if there’s even a role for McKissic on the roster.
Brian Robinson Jr. and Antonio Gibson figure to handle most of the running back work next season. The Commanders could also look to make an addition in the offseason.
The fact that McKissic is on a relatively team-friendly cap hit ($3.23 million cap hit in 2023) makes it more likely he returns than some of the others on this list.
Still, it seems more likely that McKissic is let go this offseason than he returns. The injuries and redundant role make him expendable.