4 Commanders players who are living on borrowed time in 2024
By Seth Jones
Benjamin St-Juste - Commanders CB
Benjamin St-Juste was another player drafted by the Washington Commanders in 2021. The physically imposing cornerback was taken in the third round out of Minnesota. Many analysts thought at the time he could gradually evolve into a productive starter with some extra development under high-caliber coaches.
St-Juste showed flashes and potential in 2022. This left Commanders' fans excited for what more could be on the way. Unfortunately, his production could reach the same heights during the 2023 campaign.
During an indifferent season for St-Juste’s last time around, he was targeted 103 times, allowing 70 receptions for 871 receiving yards and four touchdowns. There were some nice moments, but giving up big plays became an ongoing frustration once the Commanders' pass-rush evaporated.
Juste is entering the last year of his rookie contract. There is more competition to deal with in the defensive back unit. A new defensive coaching staff led by Joe Whitt Jr. wants physical players who get results. They won’t bring a player back who isn’t achieving that, so the pressure is on in no uncertain terms.
With the drafting of cornerback Mike Sanristil in the second round, the up-and-coming possible stardom of sophomore defensive back Quan Martin, and hopefully a bounce-back season from Emmanuel Forbes, things are looking up. That's without mentioning more potential additions to the secondary during the 2025 offseason if St-Juste cannot meet expectations.
St-Juste has his work cut out for him to earn himself a second deal with the Commanders. Hopes are high that he can raise performance levels by working with coaches renowned for getting the most out of their defensive backs. But after how things unfolded last season, the margin for error has gone from slim to non-existent.
What comes next is down to St-Juste. If the same complications emerge, Adam Peters won't hesitate to go in a different direction.