The Washington Commanders look poised to make the postseason after a sensational victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 16. It was a remarkable comeback that typified how far this once-downtrodden franchise has come in a short space of time under the new regime.
Belief is back. From the players and coaches to the front-office personnel and fans. Everyone is on the same page and excited for the future. However, the hard work is just getting started.
General manager Adam Peters has some big decisions to make during the offseason. The Commanders will be an attractive destination for pending free agents given their vast salary-cap space and ascending status in a big market. Before then, the respected front-office leader must decide what to do with those currently on the books.
Some will be moved on with little fanfare attached. Others have their fortunes hanging by a thread. A select few have done enough to potentially become part of this project in the coming years.
With this in mind, here are five Commanders playing their way into the team's long-term plans beyond 2024. We'll start with dynamic safety Jeremy Chinn.
Commanders playing their way into the team's long-term plans beyond 2024
Jeremy Chinn - Commanders S
The Washington Commanders saw something in Jeremy Chinn despite his time with the Carolina Panthers fading quickly. His, size, athleticism, and instinctive playing style seemed like a tremendous scheme fit for Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr.'s defense. This looks like a tremendous piece of business.
Chinn isn't flawless. There are deficiencies in coverage on occasion. However, the Commanders are using him perfectly. He's a stout force against the run with the closing speed to reach the contact point quickly and with supreme aggression. The former second-round pick is making every rep count and has his swagger back for good measure.
Playing with a chip on his shoulder seems to be working for Chinn. He's highly motivated to show the Panthers what they're missing and get a long-term deal in Washington or elsewhere when the campaign concludes. Much will depend on the money involved, but the Commanders would be wise to keep him around.