4 critical observations from the Commanders initial 53-man roster in 2023
By Dean Jones
What critical observations can be taken from a dramatic day for the Washington Commanders en route to finalizing their initial 53-man roster?
It was a long, difficult day for those in power within the Washington Commanders as they made a plethora of cuts to get their roster down to 53 players. This is never the easiest part of the job, but one that is unfortunately necessary after everyone gave their all throughout one of the most positive off-seasons in franchise history.
Some tough choices were navigated by head coach Ron Rivera, general manager Martin Mayhew, and others in influential positions. A few that were let go will return to the practice squad, while others will go and seek their fortune elsewhere depending on which teams decide to put in waiver claims.
That being said, here are four critical observations from the Commanders' choices en route to finalizing their initial roster.
Commanders still believe in Curtis Hodges
One of the most surprising things to see from the Washington Commanders' initial roster was the inclusion of Curtis Hodges. The tight end got his place on the team despite showing very little throughout the preparation period, which is the strongest sign yet that the coaching staff still believes in his upside.
Hodges has physical gifts that cannot be taught. He is s little rough around the edges in most areas, but Ron Rivera is betting on traits becoming something more rather than cutting Washington's losses entirely.
Just how much action Hodges sees in 2023 remains to be seen. He's clearly the fourth tight end behind Logan Thomas, Cole Turner, and John Bates, which gives him the freedom to develop gradually in the hope of playing a more significant role later in the campaign.
Of course, if a waiver opportunity comes along that can instantly improve the Commanders' chances at another position group, Hodges' joy might be short-lived. Only time will tell on that one.