4 Commanders players under pressure to perform in Preseason Week 2 vs. the Ravens

K.J. Henry - Commanders DE/OLB

While there isn't any immediate pressure on K.J. Henry's roster spot next season, the rookie pass-rusher won't want to be buried down the depth chart in 2023. Something that looks entirely possible depending on how he performs over the final two preseason games.

The Washington Commanders thought enough of Henry to trade up and acquire him as a fifth-round selection during the 2023 NFL Draft. His production throughout the preparation period has been solid if not spectacular, but others such as Efe Obada are clearly ahead and the recent emergence of seventh-rounder Andre Jones Jr. casts further doubt on the Clemson product's role.

Jones is far exceeding expectations currently and is even getting work with Washington's dominant first-string defense. This could end up with the Commanders getting another Day 3 draft gem, but it won't do Henry's chances of immediate involvement on the rotation any good whatsoever.

Getting plenty of reps into the defensive end would be wise over the next two preseason contests. The Commanders would get a broader indication of what they have in the player and can then mold a plan to maximize his first year in a professional environment as a result.

Drafting Henry was always done with the long-term in mind. But the edge presence needs to start producing the goods with others around him shining.