4 Commanders living on borrowed time after free agency upheaval

Cole Turner - Commanders TE

Releasing Logan Thomas was almost a foregone conclusion once the 2023 season concluded. While his production was solid and he managed to stay healthy for the most part, the savings attached to his early release meant this was the perfect time for those in power to go in a different direction.

The Commanders moved swiftly to bring in a replacement, signing veteran Zach Ertz to a one-year deal. He's got previous experience within Kliff Kingsbury's offensive scheme and should provide short-term assistance. His arrival also speaks volumes about how the coaching staff perceives Cole Turner's talent.

If the Commanders had strong confidence in Turner taking that next step and becoming a prominent feature in the passing game, they wouldn't have prioritized signing Ertz. Washington also has a rich amount of draft assets to potentially acquire a long-term option at the tight-end position, it would be nothing short of disastrous for the former fifth-round selection out of Nevada.

One could make a case for Turner being underused within Eric Bieniemy's pass-happy attack last season, especially considering his flashes during the preseason. Unfortunately, there is no sentiment attached to Washington's decision-making process under Adam Peters.

There is a ruthless, business-first ethos being implemented. Players like Turner will be cast aside with little fanfare attached if they cannot raise their performance levels accordingly.