3 surprising standouts from Commanders 2024 offseason workouts
By Dean Jones
Quan Martin - Commanders DB
After catching the eye when called upon in 2023, hopes were high surrounding Quan Martin entering his second offseason with the Washington Commanders. There were no guarantees under the new regime, who had no emotional attachment to any player and wouldn't hesitate to change things if they felt like there were better options available.
Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. see something in Martin. He's got the size, physicality, and instincts the coaches look for within their creative defensive schematics. There's also a lot to like about his versatility to be placed anywhere across the secondary for good measure.
Martin came into early offseason workouts looking to prove himself all over again. Every player who survived Adam Peters' roster makeover is getting their shot. The former second-round selection made the most of it by emerging as one of the team's top performers throughout OTAs and Washington's mandatory minicamp according to those in attendance.
The Illinois product looks re-energized and ready to repay the faith shown in him by those in power. Martin's incredible behind-the-back interception generated headlines, but the coaching staff lauded his contribution overall. Something that appeared to take them a little by surprise along the way.
This is positive news for Martin. Just where the Commanders deploy the physical specimen remains to be seen, but expect Quinn and Whitt to get creative in pursuit of maximizing his outstanding skill set.
Whether it's as a slot cornerback or a roaming safety on the backend, Martin's explosiveness and ability to make plays can come to the fore under accomplished coaches with proven credentials when it comes to nurturing defensive backs. The Commanders' pass defense has concerns - especially on the boundary - so any raised production they get from the second-year pro is a bonus.
Nobody is getting ahead of themselves. At the same time, Martin's dominant start to Washington's offseason program sets him up nicely for a potential breakout campaign in 2024.
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