Quan Martin - Commanders S
The Washington Commanders have not gotten the breakout from Quan Martin that almost everyone expected. His third campaign was projected to be his best yet. Instead, the 2023 second-round pick has become a weak link on the back end and in run support.
When the Commanders inexplicably let Jeremy Chinn leave in free agency, the franchise went to Martin as the top guy. These responsibilities have been too much to handle, which was magnified further by Will Harris suffering an injury early. If he cannot showcase some resolve over the next two games, he's in real danger of being demoted or cut loose entirely.
Martin's flashes are outstanding. His failures are constant and glaring in equal measure. The former Illinois standout also wasn't drafted by Adam Peters, who's had no trouble disposing of Ron Rivera selections since taking charge.
A massive effort is needed, but Martin may also have passed the point of no return.
Colson Yankoff - Commanders TE
The Commanders' tight end dynamic is interesting. Zach Ertz's torn ACL has opened the door for others to carve out roles for themselves. But aside from a few flashes here and there, nobody has stood out.
That's a problem. The Commanders were expecting more from 2024 second-round pick Ben Sinnott, who hasn't arrived as yet. John Bates is a blocking specialist and nothing more. Then, there is the curious case of Colson Yankoff to factor into the equation.
Yankof was signed as an undrafted free agent last year. A sterling effort over the summer saw him make the 53-man roster, but he was used sparingly. The same occurred this time around. Even so, he hasn't seen much involvement in the offensive rotation.
When it looked like Yankoff may get more of a look with Ertz on the shelf, he also sustained an injury. If he can't get back before the season ends, his future is hanging in the balance.
Chase Edmonds - Commanders RB
With rookie fourth-round wide receiver Jaylin Lane going to injured reserve after suffering an ankle issue against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 16, coupled with recent acquisition Jamal Agnew failing his physical, it looks like Chase Edmonds is going to get an extended run as the team's kick returner over the final two games. How he performs will determine whether his NFL career continues.
Edmonds was an intriguing arrival to the Commanders earlier this season after starting running back Austin Ekeler suffered a torn Achilles. He was brought along gradually, given the correct time to find his legs again after so long away from the gridion. Since being signed to the active roster from the practice squad, he's flashed in the return game. Now, he could be Washington's top dog in this key discipline.
Nobody is expecting much from Edmonds. Anything less than a few highlight reel moments could be catastrophic for his future aspirations.