4 Commanders players with genuine breakout potential in 2023
By Dean Jones
Which Washington Commanders players can take significant steps forward with further development ahead of the 2023 season?
Even though it was a disappointing campaign overall for the Washington Commanders in 2022, this might be a bump in the road rather than the need for anything drastic. One or two more wins would have guaranteed playoff football for the second-straight year, which is in keeping with the fine margins normally associated with winning and losing in the NFL throughout history.
While fans wait for news of a new owner, an offensive coordinator, and additions via free agency or the 2023 NFL Draft, current players are enjoying some downtime before preparations ramp up once again. For some, it’s the start of what could be an immensely profitable upcoming campaign.
Despite what some pessimists claim, the Commanders are not far away. Therefore, it’s essential every single member of the roster takes the right strides in pursuit of easing some increasing pressure on head coach Ron Rivera next time around.
With this in mind, here are four Commanders players that head into the 2023 campaign with genuine breakout potential.
Player No. 1
Phidarian Mathis – Commanders DT
It was sad to see Phidarian Mathis‘ rookie campaign end before it really began. The imposing defensive lineman was put on the shelf after just three snaps, but all signs point to the former second-round pick out of Alabama making a full recovery ahead of OTAs.
Much will depend on whether the Washington Commanders keep Daron Payne around. But hopes are high that Mathis can impose himself provided he stays clear of further injury complications.