3 Commanders who could lose their starting job to rookies in 2024
By Dean Jones
The Washington Commanders' roster is night and day from that which ended the 2023 campaign with eight straight losses. Adam Peters' ruthless roster building led to an unprecedented period of movement. Almost half the playing personnel altered as a result and the new general manager might not be done there if he feels like more is required.
Peters was active in free agency, but he wants to build through the draft. The Commanders are expecting big things from their 2024 class - which was largely well received by fans and analysts alike once the college selection process concluded. That doesn't guarantee success, but those in power feel like they've got talented guys who also fit into their way of thinking.
This influx of new rookie hopefuls is commonplace around the league. It only raises the stakes for veterans already around. They must perform to or above expectations with several first-year pros breathing down their necks for playing time.
With this in mind, here are three Commanders starters who could lose their starting jobs to rookies in 2024.
Cornelius Lucas - Commanders OT
The Washington Commanders slotted Cornelius Lucas into the starting left tackle position over early offseason workouts. This is causing great concern among the fanbase based on his previous output.
Lucas is a fine swing tackle. Asking him to assume starting responsibilities on Jayden Daniels' blindside comes with obvious complications attached. Adam Peters might decide to acquire another option before Week 1. That will largely depend on Brandon Coleman's pivotal transition from college to the pros.
The Commanders took Coleman at No. 67 overall after failing to move back into the first round for one of the elite-level prospects. He's got plenty of starting experience under his belt at TCU. However, most analysts believe his lack of size means he'll be better suited to interior duties at the next level.
That's not an opinion shared by the Commanders. They're giving Coleman a shot on the edge as part of their initial assessments. If he takes on coaching and holds his own against NFL-caliber opposition during camp and the preseason, he'll unseat Lucas in no time.