Which Washington Commanders players could tumble down the depth chart after what’s going to be a fascinating free-agency period in 2023?
Excitement is building as the Washington Commanders and others around the league enter their final planning stages before free agency. The legal tampering period is less than a week away, which is going to be nothing short of fascinating with multiple big names set to join new organizations in time for the 2023 season.
Washington got their biggest free agent tied down short-term when they placed the franchise tag on Daron Payne. Bobby McCain and Carson Wentz have been sacrificed for significant financial flexibility, with more important decisions upcoming for Ron Rivera, Martin Mayhew, and other influential figures within the organization before the madness arrives.
This is an exciting time for fans. But for some players, they might be surplus to requirements or demoted to lesser roles depending on what reinforcements the Commanders can attain in the weeks ahead.
With this in mind, here are four Commanders players who could tumble down the depth chart after free agency.
Player No. 1
Saahdiq Charles – Commanders OL
Any hope that the Washington Commanders had surrounding Saahdiq Charles firmly establishing himself as a starting option appears long gone. The offensive lineman was unable to force his way into the team’s plans and was inconsistent when given opportunities in 2022, which makes finding adequate replacements across the protection an absolute necessity throughout the off-season period.
Charles could not only tumble down the depth chart once free agency gathers pace, but the former fourth-round selection might be fighting for his place on the 53-man roster when it’s all said and done.
John Bates – Commanders TE
Although the Washington Commanders have said this offseason they are happy with their tight end options, Eric Bieniemy might have other ideas. The new assistant head coach/offensive coordinator relied heavily on the position throughout his trophy-laden spell with the Kansas City Chiefs and if he feels more is needed, it’s a voice that should hold plenty of weight in the team’s decision-making process.
Adding to the room through a talented prospect from the college ranks seems like the most realistic outcome. However, if the Commanders want instant productivity improvements, then this year’s free-agent class is loaded with intriguing options.
The likes of Mike Gesicki and Irv Smith Jr. would be outstanding additions if the money works for all parties. Something that could see John Bates‘ influence decrease when push comes to shove.
One thing Bates does better than the tight ends at Washington’s disposal is block. He is enormously gifted in this regard, but the modern-day NFL requires much more and there is also the potential for growth from Armani Rogers and Cole Turner to factor into this equation.
Bates could be on the outside looking in when it comes to prominent reps. But there’s nothing to suggest the player cannot help in special packages that require extra protection on the edge next season.
Andrew Norwell – Commanders OL
As stated previously, the Washington Commanders should address improving their offensive line as a matter of extreme urgency this offseason. No longer can the team rely on underperforming veterans and mid-level draft prospects – now is the time to spend big and finally solidify a unit that’s been crying out for stability over the last two seasons.
Much will depend on how attractive Washington appears to any veteran free agent. Eric Bieniemy’s presence should help from an offensive standpoint, but the recent NFLPA survey did the Commanders absolutely no favors and it’s something that could complicate matters.
In the meantime, Andrew Norwell faces a nervous wait. The former All-Pro linked back up with Ron Rivera last year but failed to put a consistent run of games together, so his status is also hanging by a thread heading into free agency.
Keeping Norwell around as a depth chart piece and locker room leader wouldn’t hurt. But the complications are obvious if Washington opts to start him in 2023.
If the Commanders want to legitimately maximize Bieniemy’s exceptional offensive mind and provide extra assurance for Sam Howell or someone else under center, upgrading the protection is beyond necessary. What this means for Norwell’s future is unclear, but a demotion could be coming.
Christian Holmes – Commanders CB
While there was a lot to like about Christian Holmes from a special teams’ standpoint throughout his rookie campaign, whether he can force his way up the cornerback depth chart is another matter. The Washington Commanders cannot afford to sit on their hands and wait for him to develop, so addressing this need via free agency or the 2023 NFL Draft is another high priority ahead of the new campaign.
Holmes was classed as a project pick in the seventh round last year. He was a physical presence – albeit a little raw – at Oklahoma State, which came across during his extremely limited reps on the defensive rotation as a rookie.
There is an NFL-ready frame and enough athleticism to suggest further strides can be made. And as stated previously, the player remains an asset on special teams until the coaching staff trusts him enough to become more involved.
Washington will likely consider spending the No. 16 overall selection on someone like Joey Porter Jr. or Christian Gonzalez if available. They should also have enough financial wiggle room for a veteran signing or two if the right opportunity comes along.
All Holmes can do is focus on himself and let the chips fall where they may. But all signs point to a battle for cornerback involvement in 2023.