4 Commanders players with unrealistic expectations in 2024
By Dean Jones
Expectations are growing for the Washington Commanders in 2024. An influx of new roster arrivals, a much-improved front office infrastructure, and an accomplished coaching staff led by Dan Quinn dictated as much. However, erring on the side of caution would be a wise approach for fans all things considered.
So many changes take time to mesh. Adam Peters always stated this was going to be a long-term project. Improvements should arrive, but by how much is the big question nobody knows the answer to right now.
Fans shouldn't expect the Commanders to go on a deep postseason run. That's not the primary objective despite some believing an NFC East title push is possible. If Quinn manages to bring respectability and competitiveness back, that should be good enough for now.
After that, Peters can further solidify the foundations during his second offseason at the helm in 2025. But for now, here are four Commanders players with unrealistic expectations on their shoulders next season.
Zach Ertz - Commanders TE
Anybody expecting Zach Ertz to perform to his previous Pro Bowl-caliber standards will be out of luck. While the veteran should assist in some capacity after deciding to reunite with offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, expectations must be tempered until we see him in a competitive setting.
Ertz is a dependable pass-catcher at the peak of his powers. He missed a lot of time last season following his departure from the Arizona Cardinals. The tight end is also firmly in his career twilight, so there's no telling just how much he has left in the tank.
The former second-round pick knows this is probably his last ride. Ertz's veteran savviness should provide quarterback Jayden Daniels with a comfort blanket in key situations. He's also embracing the mentorship role to ensure rookie Ben Sinnott is ready to assume the mantle at some stage.
If the Washington Commanders get this from Ertz, they'll be thrilled. However, expecting him to be a focal point on offense en route to lofty numbers at this late stage of his NFL journey is foolish.