4 major observations from the Commanders schedule release in 2023

Commanders have their work cut out in 2023

There is an urgent need for the Washington Commanders to progress in an encouraging fashion next season. While there are some hurdles to overcome, the ownership group led by Josh Harris should be in charge way before Week 1 rolls around, which raises the stakes exponentially for coaches and players alike amid such great change.

Ron Rivera will carry the can if things go south.

Others too, one suspects.

However, nothing but positivity is emanating from the playing side of things currently. This is encouraging given the obvious distractions surrounding the Commanders over the last two years.

Although the talent is there to surprise a few who've already written them off, it's hard to look at their 2023 slate with any convincing belief they can make the playoffs. Especially considering the overall strength residing within the NFC East.

Hopefully, this pessimism will be misplaced and the Commanders can make legitimate strides. Something that could be enough for Rivera to keep his job, Eric Bieniemy to finally get a head coaching gig, and Sam Howell to be given long-term responsibilities under center for good measure.

It'll be tough, there's absolutely no doubt about that. But what NFL season isn't?

The higher the stakes, the bigger the reward. Rivera and his players should bare that in mind before they take the field in a competitive setting once again.