The stakes are about to rise considerably as the Washington Commanders gear up for training camp. This is a critical stage of preparations for the new campaign, and the competition for places is fiercer than ever before in D.C.
Dan Quinn and his coaching staff have high standards. The Commanders also have lofty expectations on their shoulders after reaching the NFC Championship game in Year 1 under his stewardship. Anything less would be deemed as a step back by some, so focusing on what comes next and nothing more is paramount.
It's not hard to see why optimism is growing exponentially. The Commanders were aggressive in finding upgrades this offseason. They have a superstar quarterback and several elite-level performers on both sides of the football. A couple of problem areas could hold them back, but it would be extremely disappointing if the trajectory didn't keep pointing up when it's all said and done.
Some players currently on the books won't come along for the ride. That's all part of the business, and general manager Adam Peters won't hesitate to cut certain individuals loose if they aren't meeting the required standards.
With this in mind, here are seven Commanders players on thin ice entering a make-or-break training camp this summer.
Commanders players on thin ice entering make-or-break training camp
Jalyn Holmes - Commanders DL
Beefing up the trenches on both sides of the football was Adam Peters' most pressing priority this offseason. This was essential when one considers how the Washington Commanders lost their trench warfare battle with the Philadelphia Eagles. If they don't want history to repeat itself, drastic action is imperative.
Peters is also giving the large majority of those who gained reps last season a chance to stake bigger claims. It'll be interesting to see how they fare, but this represents a high-stakes situation for all involved.
Jalyn Holmes fits into this bracket. The defensive lineman flashed as a pass-rusher on occasion. However, his inability to make any sort of impression against the run became an ongoing frustration that could not be ignored.
Holmes needs to improve this area of his game to stand any chance of going through to the 53-man roster. The Commanders signed run-stuffer Eddie Goldman and Javon Kinlaw to provide more physicality. Sheldon Day is also getting another go-around, so the numbers game alone could place the Ohio State product on the outside looking in.
If Holmes doesn't make it, he's a strong contender for the practice squad.