5 regressing Commanders players who must bounce back down the 2024 stretch
By Dean Jones
Benjamin St-Juste - Commanders CB
Marshon Lattimore hasn't been active as yet as he works his way back from a hamstring issue. The Washington Commanders need their new star cornerback firing on all cylinders down the stretch. Taking the extra precautions needed to avoid any unnecessary complications is a smart strategy.
Lattimore should be ready soon, potentially in Week 12 at home to the Dallas Cowboys. Regardless of whether the four-time Pro Bowler is healthy or not, the Commanders need more from Benjamin St-Juste over their remaining regular-season games.
St-Juste's campaign is following his career trend. At some stages, he looks like a capable performer. The concentration issues and infringements continue to hold him back, so a huge effort is needed to improve his chances of an extended stay beyond 2024.
This ship might have sailed for St-Juste, there's just no telling for sure. He's become an easy target for fans as others get a pass. Having Lattimore to lean on will help enormously, but that won't stop opposing teams from identifying him as a weak link unless coverage consistency increases.
Brandon Coleman - Commanders OT
Brandon Coleman started well. The rookie left tackle was brought along gradually by the Commanders' coaching staff, sharing starting duties with veteran Cornelius Lucas to not put too much on his inexperienced shoulders right out of the gate.
This was a recipe for success initially. Coleman and Lucas almost split reps evenly and excelled with Washington's improved blocking concepts. Things started to dip once the aging edge enforcer missed time through injury.
Lucas' complication increased Coleman's responsibilities considerably. He got the keys to start fully versus high-quality opposition. The No. 67 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft struggled accordingly.
Pressing the panic button where Coleman is concerned would be foolish. This remains a player with immense promise - someone who could potentially be the long-term blindside option with additional refinement. However, moving back to the tandem approach is essential if Lucas is ready to accumulate prominent reps after the mini-bye.
Coleman will benefit greatly from that. If it helps the Commanders offense return to the outstanding form earlier in the campaign, the better their chances will be.