Which former Washington Commanders players could have a hard time living up to their new deals after departing the franchise throughout the offseason?
Adam Peters wasted no time in stamping his mark on the Washington Commanders. After four straight losing seasons and one default playoff appearance under Ron Rivera, something drastic was needed. The new general realized this too, implementing a significant roster overhaul in double-quick time and ensuring there was a more cohesive thought process across the football operation.
This was a necessity. The Commanders acquired capable veterans to upgrade starting positions. Depth has improved and the special teams unit was reinforced. This is a good start and there is also the small matter of Washington's nine draft selections - six in the top 100 - to further bolster the ranks.
Of course, not everyone got the benefit of the doubt. Not exactly surprising, so it'll be fascinating to see how they fare in different environments as the Commanders move forward with their exciting new era.
With this in mind, here are three former Commanders players who might not live up to their new contracts.
Cody Barton - Former Commanders LB
Cody Barton's free-agent move was an unmitigated disaster. The linebacker looked a yard or two off the required pace. His tackle numbers were decent when on the field, but these came after runners had gained significant yards more often than not. This was also recognized by the Washington Commanders, who made solidifying their defensive second level an urgent priority throughout the early stages of free agency.
Frankie Luvu, Bobby Wagner, and Anthony Pittman came into the Commanders. Jeremy Chinn also has proven production as a linebacker and box safety. Once considered a weak link, the linebacking corps should be among Washington's real strengths in 2024 unless injury strikes.
Barton wasn't out of work for long, signing a one-year, $3.5 million deal with the Denver Broncos as a potential replacement for Josey Jewell. He'd need to surge his performance levels to justify even this modest financial commitment based on last season.
Antonio Gibson - Former Commanders RB
Antonio Gibson was deemed surplus to requirements by the Washington Commanders after those in power secured the services of Austin Ekeler in free agency. This was always a likely scenario thanks to his fumbling issues and diminished role. Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury should have far more use for the former Los Angeles Chargers backfield threat as part of his expansive scheme.
A running back tandem of Ekeler and Brian Robinson Jr. should mesh well. There could be a role to play for Chris Rodriguez Jr. after the former sixth-round pick flashed as a rookie. Establishing the run consistently will make things a lot easier for their new rookie quarterback - something Sam Howell didn't benefit from during his one season under center thanks to Eric Bieniemy's stubborn pass-happy approach.
Despite the reluctance of teams to give running backs a second contract, Gibson got a decent deal from the New England Patriots for three years that could be worth $11.25 million. This looks like a good fit for the Memphis product, although he'll probably be working with a first-year quarterback as well.
Considering the presence of Rhamondre Stevenson, it looks like Gibson will be the pass-catching specialist rather than a three-down threat. That's a role he gradually moved to in Washington - especially last season. Whether he can galvanize his career in New England remains to be seen.
Curtis Samuel - Former Commanders WR
Curtis Samuel's three years with the Washington Commanders were solid if not spectacular overall. The wide receiver proved his worth as a versatile, dynamic presence. Unfortunately, the lack of stable quarterback production meant the lofty heights anticipated when he signed from the Carolina Panthers were never reached.
While nobody would have complained too much if the Commanders had extended the player, the wide receiver market quickly diminished. This led to the Buffalo Bills making Samuel an offer he couldn't refuse.
The former second-round pick out of Ohio State signed a three-year deal that could be worth $24 million. Samuel got decent money and could be a major asset for Josh Allen to call upon, but this signing could go either way for a player who gained just 1,296 receiving yards and eight touchdowns in three seasons.
There's a good chance Samuel can thrive with the best signal-caller he's ever worked with. But at the same time, expecting him to be a No. 1 or No. 2 wideout is a stretch.
As for the Commanders? They haven't addressed the wide receiver room during free agency aside from extending Jamison Crowder. But looking at how strong and deep this year's draft class appears, don't be surprised if Adam Peters identifies a couple of difference-makers from the college ranks to help their new quarterback.