4 critical observations from Commanders 2023 OTAs Day 2
By Dean Jones
What were some critical observations from the second official day of Washington Commanders organized team activities ahead of the 2023 season?
The action is coming thick and fast for the Washington Commanders and with beat reporters in full attendance after their NFL spring owners' meetings commitments, there was palpable excitement in the air for Day 2 of OTAs. Something that's already bringing its fair share of exciting and concerning storylines.
Washington cannot afford any unnecessary complications getting in the way of progress next season. Josh Harris and his ownership group will be watching how things unfold extremely closely even before their purchase becomes official, so the stakes couldn't be much higher for head coach Ron Rivera and his players.
This stage of preparation is all about putting the correct foundations in place before things get more serious later in the summer. However, the new and improved coaching staff have wasted no time upping the tempo in the hope it can galvanize those who might be getting a little complacent.
With that being said, here are four critical observations from the second Commanders' OTA session of the 2023 off-season period.
Commanders receive Armani Rogers blow
There was a somber mood across the facility before practice when head coach Ron Rivera revealed that Armani Rogers had suffered a serious lower leg injury. Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network later confirmed that the promising young tight end had ruptured his Achilles and will require surgery.
This is likely to rule Rogers out for the season, which is incredibly disappointing. Many in the building and across the fanbase believed he was set for a true breakout campaign as the team's only real dynamic force at the position, so where the Commanders go from here remains to be seen.
Those in power might be happy with what they have. If not, then a free-agent signing or perhaps even exploring a trade could enter their train of thought.