The Washington Commanders had no use for most of the players Ron Rivera drafted once the new regime took charge. General manager Adam Peters didn't believe anyone was worth keeping around long-term during a drastic roster overhaul that brought immediate improvements.
Things didn't go as well this time around, but the Commanders are still on a much sounder footing. Given how few have caught on elsewhere, Peters was absolutely correct to hit the reset button.
Some are currently playing elsewhere, but most are fighting for their NFL lives. And just when it looked like it might be over for one castoff, he quietly avoided the exit door on his professional career by getting a surprising lifeline elsewhere.
Saahdiq Charles is finally catching on elsewhere two years after Commanders exit
Saahdiq Charles wasn't brought back in 2024 free agency. The offensive lineman got countless opportunities to shine in a starting role under Rivera, but injuries and inconsistencies became his undoing. It was no surprise to see him go. Even so, it was a bombshell to see him retire just a few short months after signing for the Tennessee Titans.
Charles spent a year away from the game before joining the Dallas Cowboys. He didn't make their roster; instead, he was on their practice squad. Things looked bleak when he left the Commanders' bitter rival parted ways for good in October, but there was one more team willing to give him a shot.
The Carolina Panthers became the latest to see something in Charles. He played two games and recorded 10 special teams snaps. The LSU product was probably gearing up for another uncertain offseason. As it turned out, he impressed those in power enough to get a reserve/futures contract.
This is the best possible outcome for Charles. It keeps him in the same place, which hasn't been the case since his Commanders' rookie contract expired. It's also a vote of confidence from the Panthers, who are dealing with some fresh issues on their protection after serious injuries to Robert Hunt and Ikem Ekwonu.
Getting a reserve/futures contract doesn't guarantee anything. Charles still needs to prove himself, and his situation could legitimately go either way. But the fact that Carolina is giving him the chance to build on his initial exploits with the franchise indicates that all hope is not lost just yet.
As for the Commanders? The offensive line looks arguably their most stable area of the roster right now, especially if left guard Chris Paul is extended. Those plans haven't included Charles for a while, but he is slowly turning the tide.
Good for him.