4 major factors that could jeopardize Commanders playoff hopes in 2023
By Dean Jones
What major factors could jeopardize the Washington Commanders’ chances of mounting a postseason challenge during the 2023 season?
Things are quite literally hanging in the balance for the Washington Commanders in 2023. Although the roster looks in decent shape, the promise of new ownership will pile untold levels of pressure on everyone within the franchise to finally get things right and make the playoffs.
That might be the minimum requirement for Ron Rivera entering Year 4 of his tenure. It’s been a mixed bag from a results standpoint since his hire, although the culture shift is something that provides a better foundation for sustainable success compared to what unfolded under previous regimes.
This won’t matter much to a new owner with no emotional attachment whatsoever to Rivera. Neither will the Commanders residing in one of the NFL’s most competitive divisions that sent three teams to the playoffs last time around.
It’s a fine line that’s for sure. With that being said, here are four major factors that could jeopardize the Commanders’ chances of postseason activity in 2023.
Major Factor No. 1
Commanders suffer more injuries
Every team suffers injuries. That’s the nature of the business, unfortunately.
The Washington Commanders don’t have the right quality of depth to suffer complications for their top performers. And for the likes of Chase Young, there are some significant questions to answer on the health front heading into a contract year.
Young’s featured 12 times and gained 1.5 sacks over the last two years. The Commanders have a big decision to make about his fifth-year option before the campaign, but any further injury struggles could spell the end of his time in Washington.
Others such as Phidaran Mathis also need to step up and prove their fitness. Otherwise, it’s not hard to see where complications could arise.