3 Commanders undrafted free agents with best roster chances post-camp
By Dean Jones
Tyler Owens - Commanders S
Tyler Owens is rapidly becoming one of the summer's most encouraging stories within the Washington Commanders. Not much was expected of the safety, even though those in power allocated a decent undrafted free-agent contract to secure his services. Adam Peters and his staff saw something in the player others didn't. Looking at his offseason contribution, it's not hard to see why.
To say Owens slotted in seamlessly would be an understatement. His size and physical profile are exactly what Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. look for in their defensive backs. The former Texas Tech star surged into contention quickly, displaying outstanding progress in all defensive phases and also making an impact on special teams for good measure.
After starring over Washington's opening two preseason games, one could even make a case for Owens being a shoo-in to make the 53-man roster right now. He won't be taking anything for granted, but the rookie's put himself in an outstanding position barring any drastic turn of events in the coming days.
This is better than even the brightest optimist envisaged for Owens within a competitive safety room. It's unlikely he'll be able to unseat the starting tandem of Jeremy Chinn and Quan Martin. Darrick Forrest looks like the primary backup. After that, everything else is up for grabs.
Owens shining in practice was one thing. But the way he applied himself on defense and special teams in a more typical game-day setting tipped the scales in his favor. He's fast, aggressive, and disciplined. That's a dangerous combination and something the Commanders can put to good use.
Nothing is guaranteed, of course. The Commanders have strength in depth on the backend with several worthy candidates capable of forcing their way into the team's plans. However, it would be surprising if Owens' sterling efforts weren't rewarded.
One thing is for sure. The Commanders cannot risk stashing Owens onto the practice squad by placing him on waivers. That would almost guarantee he ends up elsewhere following an exceptional camp.