4 Commanders players with big opportunities after roster cuts in 2023
By Dean Jones
Khaleke Hudson - Commanders LB
The Washington Commanders didn't give the broadest insight into their plans for the linebacking corps before the 2023 campaign. Jack Del Rio's preference for using two or even one-linebacker sets could grow thanks to the arrivals of Emmanuel Forbes and Quan Martin via the draft, which left only four legitimate second-level options taken through onto the 53-man roster.
Of course, that could increase depending on how certain individuals fare in the early stages. One couldn't dismiss the possibility of the Commanders making specific promises to Jabril Cox once he learns the scheme after tempting the former LSU star to join the ranks instead of returning to the Dallas Cowboys.
Until then, a big chance to shine awaits Khaleke Hudson. He's been one of the true stars throughout the summer after getting a tremendous amount of confidence from a Week 18 start versus the Cowboys, so one would be hard-pressed to leave him out of the defensive rotation given his current career trajectory.
Hudson has the instincts and athleticism to be impactful. He also has the versatility to play anywhere across the linebacker unit with minimal fuss, which is obviously a desirable trait looking at how Del Rio deploys the Commanders from a defensive standpoint.
The plaudits have been plentiful surrounding Hudson this offseason. Something that increases expectations for the 2020 fifth-rounder out of Michigan after a sensational preparation period.