4 Commanders players entering precarious situations in 2024
By Dean Jones
Clelin Ferrell - Commanders DE
Finding capable pass-rushers was high on the Washington Commanders' list of priorities this offseason. Trading Chase Young and Montez Sweat before the 2023 deadline provided financial flexibility and additional draft assets for Adam Peters to utilize. It also completely negated any edge threat over the second half of the previous campaign.
Peters addressed this through free agency with three notable arrivals. Dorance Armstrong Jr. comes with long-term upside after playing the best football of his career under Dan Quinn during their time on the Dallas Cowboys. Dante Fowler Jr. also reunited instantly with Washington's new head coach, which is an indicator of the high esteem in which he is held around the league.
Another intriguing arrival is Clelin Ferrell. Peters was part of the brain trust that brought him to the San Francisco 49ers after he failed to meet expectations as a first-round pick of the Las Vegas Raiders. The new front-office leader seemed suitably impressed by his contribution.
Ferrell's working hard to shake off the draft bust tag. The former Clemson star might never live up to being the No. 4 overall selection, but that doesn't mean he cannot carve out a productive career for himself moving forward after showing signs of life during the 2023 season.
This is a big opportunity awaiting the Virginia native. The Commanders aren't blessed with the greatest edge-rushing depth. It would be surprising if Ferrell didn't gain key rotational reps or perhaps even start over Fowler with a smooth transition into Quinn's expansive system.
The signs are encouraging at long last for Ferrell, but his situation remains precarious. Washington gave him a one-year, prove-it deal in free agency. Unless the production takes a surge forward, Peters will have no trouble moving on from the player.
With 13.5 sacks in five seasons, the jury is still out. But if anyone can help Ferrell finally meet his pre-draft expectations, it's Quinn and defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr.
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