4 Commanders players who could lose depth chart status in 2023
By Dean Jones
Efe Obada - Commanders DL
It's hard not to root for a guy like Efe Obada. The defensive end's story couldn't be more inspiring and his infectious enthusiasm has made him a fan favorite wherever he's been.
Obada has close links to Ron Rivera. The head coach provided him with an NFL opportunity on the Carolina Panthers, which is something the Nigerian-born player was keen not to waste.
Looking at Obada's full body of work, he's carved out a decent niche for himself. He is a productive rotational defensive lineman that puts up quality numbers with limited reps, which is matched by the sort of positional versatility Rivera loves in his linemen on both sides of the football.
While Obada's one-year extension was well-deserved this spring, the Commanders brought in two promising edge prospects via the 2023 NFL Draft, who'll fancy their chances of involvement. This bares more significance in K.J. Henry's case given Washington traded up for the Clemson product.
The Commanders are also high on James Smith-Williams, who could make further strides next season. Obada should have a role to play given how Rivera values proven performers, but it might not be from his current depth chart status if Henry takes off quicker than expected.