4 pending Commanders free agents who probably won't be back in 2024
By Dean Jones
Cornelius Lucas - Commanders OT
To nobody's surprise, the Washington Commanders made fortifying their offensive line a huge priority this offseason. Something that saw multiple additions arrive via free agency and the 2023 NFL Draft to boost the starting unit and improve depth for good measure.
Providing everyone gets on the same page quickly this offseason, it should help the offense become more efficient. Especially if Sam Howell and Eric Bieniemy also hit it off when competitive action arrives.
Cornelius Lucas is likely to adopt a key role on the offensive line rotation in 2023. The veteran will be Washington's swing tackle once again, which is a role he assumed well in 2022 all things considered.
The former undrafted free agent out of Kansas State gave up four sacks and conceded three penalties from 671 snaps last season en route to a creditable 67.7 grade from Pro Football Focus. Lucas will be the primary backup to Charles Leno Jr. and Andrew Wylie, who are the Commanders' expected starting tackle tandem entering the campaign.
Much will depend on the development of other young linemen on Washington's depth chart. If the coaching staff are happy with their progress, Lucas might be deemed surplus to requirements once his contract expires.