4 players the Commanders cannot risk sneaking onto the practice squad in 2023

Tariq Castro-Fields - Commanders CB

The Washington Commanders wasted no time in strengthening their secondary during the 2023 NFL Draft. Emmanuel Forbes and Quan Martin - two talented young defensive backs - were taken over the opening pair of selections, which was a surprise to many when one considers the number of quality interior offensive linemen that were there for the taking in Round No. 2.

This provides the Commanders with a deep-looking group of cornerbacks - especially if the coaching staff utilizes Martin as a nickel option based on his physical frame and decent athletic measurables. The onus is on those already around to step up and make last contributions, with Tariq Castro-Fields among those who face a fight for their roster position heading into training camp.

The 2022 sixth-round selection was seldom seen as a rookie, so it's hard to gauge just what the Commanders have in the one-time Penn State star. Going on injured/reserve relatively early in the campaign didn't help his cause, so it remains to be seen whether or not he can successfully catch the eye with increased competition this summer.

Castro-Fields has good functional athleticism and could be an asset on special teams if he does enough to make the team. But that is far from a guarantee when one considers the likes of Danny Johnson, Rachad Wildgoose, and Christian Holmes are also eager for involvement.

One would expect Castro-Fields to be a prime practice squad candidate if he doesn't make the team. But a situation could arise where he's snapped up quickly off the waiver wire to prevent such an eventuality.