4 Commanders players on the hot seat at training camp in 2023

Saahdiq Charles - Commanders OL

The Washington Commanders' offensive line has a completely different feel heading into training camp. Only one player who started the 2022 campaign is expected to be in the first-string unit when they take the field against the Arizona Cardinals, which is a testament to how poorly this positional group performed and the dire need for an offseason revamp.

Charles Leno Jr. and Andrew Wylie will be the team's offensive tackle tandem. Nick Gates will man the center spot after his arrival from the New York Giants in free agency, with the Commanders switching former second-round selection Sam Cosmi from the edge to right guard in the hope it can bring about better production.

Four of the five positions appear to be locked in. Now that the Commanders have released Andrew Norwell, it seems as if Saahdiq Charles is the official favorite to begin the campaign at left guard depending on what unfolds at training camp.

Charles is a polarizing figure. His athletic attributes are undeniable and he also has the position versatility Ron Rivera loves in his protectors, but it just hasn't come together for the LSU product as yet entering Year 4 of his professional career.

The Commanders aren't giving up on Charles just yet. But with Chris Paul growing in stature this offseason and rookies such as Ricky Stromberg and Braeden Daniels looking for playing time, anything less than major progress could see his status plunged into doubt.