4 Commanders players who didn't stand a chance in 2023
By Dean Jones
Which Washington Commanders players didn't stand a chance for differing reasons during a largely forgettable 2023 campaign?
We are eagerly awaiting news of a new head coach. All signs are pointing to the Washington Commanders hiring Ben Johnson. They are scheduled to send a committee to speak in person with the Detroit Lions offensive coordinator early next week. If everything goes well, then he'll probably be the chosen individual to take the franchise forward.
If Josh Harris can land the most coveted general manager and head coach candidates in the same offseason - his first as majority ownership partner - it's the biggest statement of intent imaginable. There is a lot of hard work ahead to mold Washington's roster into contention, but sustainable foundations to speed up the process are being laid.
What this means for the current playing staff remains to be seen. Big changes are on the way. Some will be expecting a departure. Others might feel like they didn't get a fair shake for one reason or another.
With this in mind, here are four Commanders players who never stood a chance in 2023.
Cole Turner - Commanders TE
After an impressive offseason, hopes were high that Cole Turner would carve out a role for himself within a new-look offense led by Eric Bieniemy. His eye-catching route running and assured hands left many believing opportunities would be plentiful for the tight end/ Especially considering how much the play-caller utilized the position during his time on the Kansas City Chiefs.
With coaches fighting for their jobs, the Washington Commanders relied on more established figures. Logan Thomas was the undisputed alpha. He was solid, but nothing special. As for Turner? The former fifth-round pick generated just 15 targets - 11 of which he brought in for 120 receiving yards.
This lack of involvement was bemusing. The Commanders weren't playing for anything other than pride over the second half of 2023. Handing Turner more responsibilities would have given the new regime a helping hand with their evaluations.
Unfortunately, Bieniemy had other ideas.