Which Washington Commanders players could be set for reduced roles after an eventful offseason of recruitment ahead of the 2023 campaign?
It was a modest spring for the Washington Commanders in terms of recruitment. Ron Rivera's method of roster building coupled with the team's ownership flux meant making big splashes was a non-starter, but one could make a strong case those in power did more with less looking at their options currently.
There is some spare cash to perhaps strengthen a problem area or two if the Commanders don't like what they see at training camp. There will also be a different dynamic in Ashburn this year with Josh Harris' group set to get their $6.05 billion purchase approved by other NFL owners on July 20.
The stakes are high and the margin for error is slimmer than ever for Rivera. Washington increased competition across the board in the hope it can provide the urgency needed, which could mean some individuals on the books don't get their usual regular-season reps compared to previous years unless they make improvements.
With this in mind, here are three Commanders players who look set for reduced roles in 2023.
John Ridgeway - Commanders DL
The Washington Commanders defensive front endured some rough luck through injuries last season. But thanks to an immense upturn in production from Daron Payne, they remained one of the league's standout units in 2022.
John Ridgeway probably got more than he bargained for in terms of playing time. The interior presence benefitted greatly from Phidarian Mathis going down with an unfortunate injury in Week 1, but all signs point to the former second-round selection out of Alabama being raring to go this time around.
Jonathan Allen and Payne are the undisputed starters on the defensive line interior. If Mathis becomes the primary rotational piece expected, then Ridgeway is going to see his reps come down significantly unless injury strikes.