4 forgotten Commanders players that could contribute in 2023
By Dean Jones
Cole Turner - Commanders TE
After the Washington Commanders didn't do anything to bolster their tight-end options next season, the onus falls on those already around to step up and increase performance levels. But the team's options are now down to four after Armani Rogers suffered a ruptured Achilles on Day 1 of OTAs, which rules him out for the entire campaign.
This is a blow considering how high Ron Rivera and others in the building were on Rogers taking a leap forward next season. However, this unfortunate turn of events could provide an opportunity for others to generate targets behind the projected No. 1 option Logan Thomas.
One player that falls into this category is Cole Turner. The former fifth-round selection was seldom seen as a rookie due to injuries, but he is a slick route runner with soft hands that could be an asset within Eric Bieniemy's scheme provided there are no further complications on the health front.
John Bates and the 6-foot-8 Curtis Hodges will also fancy their chances of surging up the depth chart. Everyone is getting a clean slate under Bieniemy, who obviously saw enough upside in the group to avoid bringing in additional options when many thought that would be the case.
The onus is on Turner to catch the eye this offseason. If the former Nevada standout does enough, then Bieniemy might have a player on his hands.