3 bold predictions for the Commanders 2023 preseason finale vs. Bengals
By Dean Jones
Bold predictions for the Washington Commanders as they look to finish their preseason unbeaten against the Cincinnati Bengals?
One final audition awaits those Washington Commanders players who'll be involved this evening against the Cincinnati Bengals. It's been a long, hard preparation period with plenty of energy in the immediate aftermath of Dan Snyder's departure, but the most difficult part is fast approaching for Ron Rivera as he gets set to trim his roster down to 53.
Coaches will have a good idea about who's going to make it. But for some, one big play against the Bengals could be the difference between uncertainty and financial security next season.
These high stakes are prevalent around the NFL currently. For the Commanders, they cannot afford to make any bad choices given what's at stake for Rivera with Josh Harris' ownership group putting everyone in precarious situations until further notice.
Looking ahead, here are three bold predictions for Washington's last preseason game of 2023.
Percy Butler leads Commanders in tackles
It's been a tremendous offseason so far for Percy Butler. The second-year safety is looking to take a significant leap and gain more involvement despite the presence of Kamren Curl and Darrick Forrest as the confirmed starters on the backend, which is entirely possible considering how much growth the player displayed throughout the summer.
The Commanders would be wise to give Butler plenty of reps without Forrest or Curl to see how he fares. If he can emerge from Washington's final warmup game as the team's leading tackler, that might be all Jack Del Rio needs to be truly convinced.