4 Commanders draft picks who could be cut after 2024 training camp
By Dean Jones
Andre Jones Jr. - Commanders DE/OLB
The Washington Commanders needed to find edge rushing help as a matter of urgency this offseason. Trading Montez Sweat and Chase Young left a gaping hole those around couldn't fill. This didn't go unnoticed by general manager Adam Peters as part of his roster regeneration upon assuming the front-office leadership role.
Dorance Armstrong Jr., Clelin Ferrell, and Dante Fowler Jr. were signed in free agency. Jamin Davis is being deployed more on the edge after the Commanders upgraded their linebacking corps. Hopes remain high that K.J. Henry can flourish further under Dan Quinn's guidance after flashing promise as a rookie.
Everyone must reach or exceed their targets for the Commanders to gain consistent pressure. Anyone not displaying growth isn't going to last long under the new coaching staff. This places Andre Jones Jr.'s future firmly under the microscope.
Jones was a seventh-round pick in 2023 and worked hard to earn his place on the 53-man roster. He was used sparingly on the defensive rotation by previous head coach Ron Rivera, featuring in 18 percent of the team's defensive snaps from 14 games - two of which he started.
The former Louisville star was a consistent special teams presence. This is a niche he should continue to carve out for himself in pursuit of earning his roster status once again in 2024. Jones looks pretty far down the pecking order as things stand. Much will also depend on what the Commanders have in store for Javontae Jean-Baptiste, who was taken with Peters' final selection of his first draft with the franchise.
Jones has experience on his side. He'll have taken plenty of harsh lessons on board following his debut NFL season. Putting these to good use will be crucial in his quest to re-establish himself under Washington's accomplished defensive staff.
Overcoming adversity is nothing new for Jones. Seventh-round picks are easily disposed of if they don't show enough. That could be the case once again unless improvements arrive in some capacity.