The Washington Commanders might be going through a concerning slump right now. However, it's been a long time since this perennial bottom-feeder had seven wins at this stage of the campaign.
It's important to have perspective. Expectations rose to a level the Commanders couldn't manage in Year 1 of this rebuild. That'll be disappointing for fans dreaming of a postseason run, but it's a sign that things are progressing quicker than anticipated.
General manager Adam Peters has a lot of hard work ahead. He left a tremendous impression over his first recruitment period at the helm. If he can find the right pieces during the 2025 offseason in problem position groups, the Commanders should continue their rapid rise back to the NFL's top table.
Some will be around to assist with this ambitious project. Unfortunately for others, they'll be moved on with little fanfare attached after failing to meet specific targets throughout the campaign under new head coach Dan Quinn.
With this in mind, here are five Commanders players, including veteran cornerback Benjamin St-Juste, whose time in Washington is coming to an end.
Commanders players whose time in Washington is coming to an end
Benjamin St-Juste - Commanders CB
Benjamin St-Juste is a curious case. The cornerback is physical and has flashed moments of genuine promise since joining the Washington Commanders as a third-round selection. Unfortunately for the player, the consistency just isn't where it needs to be.
For all of St-Juste's good moments in coverage, concentration issues continue to hold him back. He's targeted as a weak link by opposing offenses in key moments. This isn't going unnoticed by those in power, who reduced his role in Week 13 and also made a big splash by acquiring Marshon Lattimore via trade from the New Orleans Saints before the deadline.
This could mean the Commanders are planning to move on from St-Juste. Emmanuel Forbes Jr. and others could be set for exits throughout the offseason as well. Unless there's a monumental surge forward from the former Minnesota standout in the coming weeks, all signs point to the player's departure once his rookie contract expires.
The Commanders could keep St-Juste around as a rotational piece. That is becoming increasingly unlikely when one factors everything into the equation.