3 ambitious goals for the Commanders under Dan Quinn in 2024
By Dean Jones
Commanders become a top-five rushing attack
Eric Bieniemy promised much and delivered very little during his one season as Washington Commanders offensive coordinator. His coaching methods rubbed players up the wrong way. There was no balance within his schematic concepts. The play-caller relied heavily on the passing game and placed far too much pressure on his woeful offensive line.
This was deeply disappointing when one considers the promising strides made by Brian Robinson Jr. The former third-round selection went over 1,100 all-purpose yards and looked like someone who could take on lead-back responsibilities long-term. Hopefully, new offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury finds the correct formula that enables his unit to thrive.
Things look promising under Kingsbury's guidance. The play-caller is renowned for maximizing the skills of the personnel available. Expect to see the rushing attack featured more prominently during the 2024 campaign.
Robinson remains a focal point. The Commanders signed Austin Ekeler to replace Antonio Gibson in free agency. This looks like an immediate upgrade, especially in the passing game and when Washington enters the red zone. There's also a lot to like about Chris Rodriguez Jr.'s scope for growth after flashing moments of promise as a rookie.
One cannot overlook the potential impact quarterback Jayden Daniels brings to this discipline. The No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft is renowned for taking off and gaining significant yards on the run. Limiting the risk of taking heavy hits is paramount, but his electrifying capabilities give defenses a major headache and are already striking fear into those around the league.
The Commanders averaged 93.6 yards per game on the ground in 2023. This ranked No. 26 league-wide and must change if Kingsbury wants to improve the team's fortunes and control the clock.
Robinson, Ekeler, Rodriguez, and Daniels have the tools capable of taking a significant leap forward. If the Commanders could become a top-five rushing attack, it would be better than ever the brightest optimist envisages right now.