Even though the Washington Commanders had to confirm their initial 53-man roster, nobody thought general manager Adam Peters was done. There are spots to fill and problem areas to strengthen, so fans were watching closely to see which options could potentially become targets.
As it turned out, Peters had something in mind with an intriguing addition to the practice squad.
According to reports, the Commanders have signed cornerback Terrell Smith to their practice squad options. Though he's no sure thing, he's displayed enough promise to potentially alleviate any depth issues at corner.
Commanders make intriguing practice squad signing with Terrell Smith
Smith had a decent summer, according to reports. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough to make the Chicago Bears' 53-man roster. However, Peters believes there was something that could potentially assist the Commanders this season.
That might be on the practice squad initially. But it gives them another contingency plan if Trey Amos takes longer than expected to return from injured reserve.
Amos has practiced once in full since November last year. His rookie campaign was cut short by a fractured fibula, and he suffered an ankle sprain during his second practice. Not exactly ideal, but the Commanders have to effectively cope if they want to make improvements.
Adding leftovers who couldn't make the cut elsewhere isn't ideal, but Peters just has to make the best of a bad situation. And after a concerning couple of weeks to end the summer, standing pat was no longer an option.
While Smith might not solve every problem, the Commanders were right not to sit on their hands. He's got the size and athleticism to offer something, and the former Minnesota standout looks well-suited for the scheme Daronte Jones plans to run.
Staying healthy is crucial. If Smith manages that, he's got a chance.
It'll now be a crash course for Smith. He has a couple of weeks to get himself up to speed before Week 1 against the Philadelphia Eagles, and if everything goes well, he could be a game-day call-up.
But if it takes him a little longer to pick up the pace, so be it. After all, that is the luxury of being a practice squad player.
The Commanders still have problems. Smith might help over time, and Fabian Moreau re-signing after being released will also assist, but Peters might not be done with the incomings. There is the remaining veteran pool to examine, and if Washington's front office leader is feeling a little bolder, a potential trade shouldn't be completely dismissed either.
For now, Smith and other practice squad newcomers will have to suffice.
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