3 Commanders with emerging importance after free-agent moves in 2023
By Dean Jones
Which Washington Commanders players could have emerging importance to the team’s chances in 2023 after the team’s free-agent moves?
Things went pretty much as expected for the Washington Commanders over the first few weeks of free agency. There wasn’t much money to go around despite the $26.17 million saved with Carson Wentz’s early release, with head coach Ron Rivera opting to focus his attention on keeping around established figures who’ve already proven themselves under his leadership.
Daron Payne was the priority, which was sorted with minimal fuss. One or two notable names arrived from the veteran pool, but how much they’ll move the needle remains to be seen during a critical upcoming campaign for the franchise.
More arrivals will come from the 2023 NFL Draft. But some on the roster can feel confident of bigger, more influential roles if the team’s recent signings are any indication.
On this topic, here are three Commanders players with emerging importance after the opening three weeks of free agency.
Player No. 1
Charles Leno Jr. – Commanders OT
The Washington Commanders are going through a significant makeover of their offensive line. However, there appears to be one constant that will play a pivotal role in any cohesion that comes the unit’s way next season.
Barring a high-end draft selection coming into the fold, Charles Leno Jr. looks set to be the starting left tackle once again in 2023. His production last time around was pretty decent overall, with the veteran’s influence as a locker-room leader something else that holds plenty of weight.
Leno’s role will be integral during the preparation period and when the regular season arrives. And who knows, perhaps the upgrades across the protection could benefit his performance levels along the way.