3 key Washington Commanders objectives after 2024 minicamp

Signing a marquee veteran CB should be Commanders' priority

J.C. Jackson's penchant for creating turnovers makes him a more exciting fit, but Dan Quinn may feel more comfortable signing Stephon Gilmore to improve the cornerback room. The 2019 NFL Defensive Player of the Year allowed the Washington Commanders' new head coach to call his preferred brand of defense in Dallas.

It's a scheme built around relentless pressure in front of physical, man-to-man coverage. This risky way to combat offenses demands corners who can thrive on an island, something Gilmore has done for most of his career.

He gave an example of his enduring ability to track even the best wide receivers all over the field with plays like this one against Philadelphia Eagles' Pro Bowler A.J. Brown, from last season.

Gilmore's 33 years old, but he wants to prolong his playing days. This is based on comments he made during Tom Brady's induction into the New England Patriots Hall of Fame, via MassLive.com's Nick O'Malley:

"Being patient right now. I feel good, Year 13, been playing a long time. So I’m just being patient and waiting for the right opportunity."

- Stephon Gilmore via MassLive.com

Quinn's working relationship with Gilmore could provide the right opportunity. This is an obvious chance to practically walk into a starting job alongside Benjamin St-Juste.

A trio comprised of Gilmore and St-Juste on the outside, with second-round pick Mike Sainristil manning the slot, would give Quinn the bruising cover men he needs to make his press-man schemes work. Relying on this group would be more of a sure thing than counting on Forbes to make a second-year leap.

The Commanders have the budget to put team-friendly, veteran contracts in front of Gilmore and Smith, while still having the funds to lock up Cosmi's future.

Those moves would better equip a roster that's already been skilfully rebuilt in key areas, to surprise a few people this season.