Hope has been restored to the Washington Commanders. That's the biggest takeaway from their efforts up to the 2024 bye week - a trend that can hopefully continue upon their return and way into the future.
There's more professionalism and purpose than ever before. Gone are the days of dysfunction and disgrace when previous Washington owner Dan Snyder held absolute power. The new regime has a long-term plan for sustained growth. They want to be an industry leader on and off the field and will spare no expense to ensure this dream becomes a reality.
It'll take time, of course. General manager Adam Peters must be thrilled with what he's seen from the Commanders so far. The highly respected front-office leader should also be aware of how much more is needed before this historic organization enters the Super Bowl conversation.
There have been good moments. There have been bad moments. There have also been a few pleasant surprises along the way as the Commanders sit with an 8-5 record at their eagerly-anticipated bye week.
Let's take a look at five prime examples.
Pleasant surprises for the Commanders at the 2024 bye week
Commanders OL cohesion
One of the biggest reasons why Ron Rivera couldn't galvanize the Washington Commanders centered on his terrible evaluation of the offensive line. The former head coach inherited a decent unit. It was decimated into one of the league's worst during his four-year tenure.
Adam Peters made strengthening this area among his top priorities. Three new starters were acquired via free agency and the draft. The Commanders also hired offensive line coach Bobby Johnson, which raised a few eyebrows after he was scapegoated by the New York Giants on his way out of the door.
The improvements are there for all to see. It's not perfect by any stretch, but it's night and day to last season.
Nick Allegretti, Tyler Biadasz, and Sam Cosmi represent a prolific interior trio providing the anchor for Jayden Daniels to thrive. Washington's decision to split left tackle reps between rookie third-rounder Brandon Coleman and veteran Cornelius Lucas was a masterstroke. Andrew Wylie's also raised performance levels aside from the odd blip.
The Commanders need this to continue after the bye week. If the protection holds firm, that could be enough for Daniels to spearhead this franchise back into the postseason.