4 Commanders fan favorites who are in danger of being cut before Week 1
By Dean Jones
Rachad Wildgoose - Commanders CB
There was a lot to like about Rachad Wildgoose's production when allocated reps on the defensive rotation last season. His ability to cover the slot was accomplished, giving up just 57.9 percent of targets thrown in his direction and making big strides in terms of discipline against the run.
Wildgoose was probably hoping for more involvement next season as a result. While that could still be the case depending on how things unfold at training camp, the cornerback's task was made far more difficult after the Washington Commanders spent their first two selections of the 2023 NFL Draft on defensive backs.
Emmanuel Forbes was chosen at No. 16 and looks like the ballhawk presence Washington's secondary desperately needs. Quan Martin became the Commanders' second-round selection and could assume nickel duties right out of the gate with a smooth transition.
Couple this with the presence of Benjamin St-Juste and Kendall Fuller, it's not hard to see why things look bleak for Wildgoose and others. The popular figure has never shirked a challenge, but anything less than high-impact consistency throughout camp puts his roster position in jeopardy.
That might sound a little harsh after his encouraging strides last season, but the NFL is a ruthless business and Ron Rivera cannot afford to attach any emotion to his decisions with Josh Harris' ownership group watching closely.