4 Commanders with plummeting stock after 2024 offseason workouts

Efe Obada - Commanders DL

Efe Obada wasn't expected to return this offseason. His close association with previous head coach Ron Rivera and a serious leg injury suffered in 2023 meant his aspirations looked bleak. However, the versatile defensive lineman has a big fan in the form of Dan Quinn.

The Washington Commanders' head coach was one of the first people to reach out to Obada following his broken leg. This was a strong statement considering he was Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator at the time. It also played a significant role in the Nigerian-born player getting another new deal.

Obada is on the road to recovery and should participate fully at Washington's training camp. That's the good news. The bad news is that his roster position isn't guaranteed by any stretch.

The Commanders made several additions to their defensive front throughout a frantic recruitment period under Adam Peters. Dorance Armstrong Jr., Clelin Ferrell, and Dante Fowler Jr. were acquired in free agency. Johnny Newton and Javontae Jean-Baptiste arrived during the 2024 NFL Draft. Couple this with the potential for K.J. Henry to shine further after flashing as a rookie, and the task awaiting Obada is steep.

Quinn has a deep respect for Obada. He came from the gutter - homeless on the streets of London - to become an NFL star. That's the sort of fighting spirit and high character he is looking to install across the Commanders to spearhead their road to redemption.

Obada is a feel-good story. He continues to overcome the odds with a smile on his face. However, one could argue this is his toughest test since deciding to try his luck in the NFL.

Other players have shined over early offseason workouts as Obada works his way back to 100 percent health. The emotional attachment to Quinn is evident, but there is no room for sentiment when it comes to molding a competitive NFL roster.