Which Washington Commanders players look to have outstanding opportunities ahead of them in 2023 after the team's initial 53-man roster cuts?
It's been a difficult few days for the Washington Commanders as Ron Rivera and his staff trimmed their roster to 53, together with a further 16 individuals taken through onto the practice squad. There weren't many surprises looking at how things unfolded, but everyone chosen earned their place by merit as the organization aims for improved fortunes under new ownership moving forward.
Confidence is clearly building across the Commanders. Their game against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 1 is well on track to be a sell-out at FedEx Field, which represents another sign that the tide is turning after decades of disenchantment under the previous owner.
This positive momentum is all well and good, but it doesn't detract from the pressure on Rivera's shoulders in 2023. And if certain players cannot help their head coach with better production, it's not hard to see what repercussions could emerge.
With that in mind, here are four Commanders players with big opportunities awaiting them in 2023 after roster cuts.
Saahdiq Charles - Commanders OL
It looked for a while as if it might not be the case, but all signs point to Saahdiq Charles winning the left guard position battle and being on the field right out of the gate when the Washington Commanders begin their 2023 campaign against the Arizona Cardinals. Something that represents a last-chase saloon scenario for the physically gifted offensive lineman.
Charles has always boasted the athletic gifts needed to become a real force on the interior. Injuries and poor production mean lofty expectations haven't been reached as yet, but it's been evident throughout the summer that head coach Ron Rivera isn't willing to give up on the former fourth-round selection out of LSU just yet.
Chris Paul pushed Charles every step of the way and could be introduced if high standards weren't met. But for now, opportunity knocks once again for the projected starter heading into the final year of his deal.