4 Commanders free agents who could be forced into retirement in 2024
By Dean Jones
Which Washington Commanders players could be forced into retirement for differing reasons during the 2024 offseason?
General manager Adam Peters has already brought about big changes to the Washington Commanders. They have some heavy artillery to utilize in pursuit of strengthening the roster this off-season. For some, that means the end of their proverbial road in DC.
There is no room for sentiment, nor should there be after so much underachievement in recent years. Peters and his front-office staff will have a plan to gradually build this once-proud franchise into a contender. They also have an ambitious coaching staff with the right blend of youth and experience to spearhead better fortunes.
Free agency is always an uncertain time for many. Some players will be instantly coveted based on their talent level and potential. Others will see their time in the league come to an end, even if they don't want it to.
With this in mind, here are four Commanders free agents who could be forced into retirement for differing reasons in 2024.
Joey Slye
It was a surprise to see Joey Slye get almost a completely free run to the starting kicker job in 2023. Michael Badgley came in briefly but was swiftly moved on. This seemed like a token gesture from Ron Rivera, who always had plans to move forward with a player he's got strong connections to from their time together on the Carolina Panthers.
With Rivera no longer around and Slye remaining inconsistent last season, it seems unlikely he'll be retained under the new regime. The life of a kicker is something of a rollercoaster, but a situation could emerge where the former Virginia Tech college standout doesn't get another call.
Although unlikely, it cannot be dismissed entirely.