The offseason program is in the books, and the Washington Commanders are now turning their attention to what promises to be a fascinating training camp for all involved. And the stakes couldn't be higher.
Washington took the NFL by storm last season. It quickly became a miraculous turnaround that saw this perennial bottom-feeder come from nowhere into legitimate Super Bowl contention. That was beyond anyone's wildest dreams, but what comes next is more important.
Maintaining these high standards is trickier. Much trickier.
Dan Quinn's squad won't be a surprise this time around. They are among the favorites to win it all, which brings raised expectations that must be matched. Urgency in the building remains high, and the page has been turned. Anyone not pulling their weight could be facing a precarious future.
Adam Peters is a cutthroat roster builder. The general manager's got no problem disposing of established veterans if he feels like it will benefit the franchise. He's all about rewarding those who prove their worth, and it's a big reason why the Commanders achieved so much in Year 1 under his leadership.
With this in mind, here are five Commanders players who could be shocking cut candidates if things turn ugly for them at training camp.
Commanders players who could be shocking cuts if training camp turns ugly
Michael Gallup - Commanders WR
This would be the least shocking cut on the list. However, it would be bitterly disappointing nonetheless.
The Washington Commanders gave Michael Gallup a chance to resume his NFL journey this offseason. He retired last summer after losing motivation for the game following his release by the Dallas Cowboys. Some time away to reflect and refocus saw his eagerness to compete return.
Gallup is confident that the Commanders are the right environment to flourish. The wideout knows Dan Quinn well from their time together in Dallas, which provides an added sense of security en route to potentially establishing himself on the offensive rotation. Unfortunately for the pass-catcher, his early transition suffered a bump in the road.
There was no sign of Gallup during Washington's mandatory minicamp. It was later revealed that the player was dealing with a hamstring injury that the coaching staff decided not to risk. Although they made the right call, it already places him firmly on the back foot.
Unless Gallup hits the ground running and avoids more injury issues at training camp, the Commanders could easily cut him loose. Something that would probably spell the end of his NFL dream for good.