4 forgotten Commanders players that could contribute in 2023
By Dean Jones
Which forgotten Washington Commanders players could step up and make surprising contributions during an important 2023 season for the franchise?
The Washington Commanders have an awful lot at stake next season. With the franchise set to become owned by the Josh Harris group at some stage this summer, it raises the stakes exponentially to make significant improvements when competitive games begin in Week 1 against the Arizona Cardinals.
This is something that requires everyone to pull in the same direction. Obviously, head coach Ron Rivera and his staff will be relying on some more than others, but the increased urgency means there is absolutely no room for passengers across the 53-man roster.
For now, there is more optimism than pessimism. But with a difficult-looking schedule and some serious questions surrounding key positional groups, that might not be the case for long.
With that being said, here are four forgotten Commanders players that could make surprising contributions in 2023.
Tariq Castro-Fields - Commanders CB
It's been encouraging to see the Washington Commanders make strengthening their secondary among the big priorities this offseason. Three new additions to the cornerback room emerged from the waiver wire and the 2023 NFL Draft, which could make a huge difference if Emmanuel Forbes, Quan Martin, and Cameron Dantzler Sr. hit the ground running.
Despite these signings making it more difficult for Tariq Castro-Fields, don't be surprised if the athletic corner pushes for more playing time in 2023. And the former sixth-round pick caught the eye with assured coverage and impressive explosiveness throughout the first portion of OTAs.
It'll be difficult for Castro-Fields. But if he can force his way into Washington's plans, there is a lot to like about his potential to contribute in some capacity.