4 Commanders players that can’t afford to start 2023 on a sour note
By Dean Jones
Which Washington Commanders players with uncertain futures cannot afford to start the upcoming 2023 campaign on a sour note?
The stakes couldn't be much greater for the Washington Commanders next season. Josh Harris will meet with the NFL's finance committee on Wednesday to hopefully finalize the sale agreement before the formal vote, which is encouraging but increases the pressure on influential figures across the franchise tremendously.
Ron Rivera has been through something similar before. But for the players, it'll also be a nervous wait to see what unfolds once Harris' ownership consortium come into the franchise with their own ideas to take this storied club forward.
Obviously, winning cures all in this scenario. However, one suspects the Commanders would need to go deep into the postseason to avoid any personnel alterations under the new regime.
With this in mind, here are four Commanders players that cannot afford to start the 2023 campaign on a sour note.
Sam Cosmi - Commanders OL
Sam Cosmi looks set to occupy the starting right guard position if the offensive line structure throughout early offseason workouts is any indication. The former second-round selection just hasn't met expectations as an edge protector, so switching to the interior can hopefully provide the extra cover needed to thrive.
Having capable performers such as Nick Gates and Andrew Wylie alongside him will be a big help. But if Cosmi doesn't start the campaign well, it won't take long for the Washington Commanders to make changes given the urgent need to progress in 2023.
Cosmi has talent, even if it hasn't all come together as yet. Making the transition to guard has to go well for the one-time Texas star to avoid any unnecessary speculation about his long-term future.