4 players Commanders can't risk sneaking on the practice squad in 2024
By Dean Jones
Dominique Hampton - Commanders S
One doesn't have to look far around the NFL for examples of college players switching off once they make it to the big leagues. Complacency sets in and the extra money changes their demeanor. It's not always the case, but it can happen if incoming prospects get a little too ahead of themselves.
The job is far from finished. Everyone from Jayden Daniels to the undrafted free agent class must prove themselves among grown professionals with more experience. If they don't display the correct attitude and willingness to learn, Adam Peters won't hesitate to dispose of them with little fanfare attached.
This bears more significance with those taken lower down the draft order or failing to hear their names called entirely. Dominique Hampton seems to have the correct mindset coming into the franchise. That said, the competition for places at the safety spot is fierce and nothing will be given.
The coaching staff seems confident in Hampton's ability to carve out a role for himself. He played a key role in the Washington Huskies reaching the college football national championship game. There are some technical flaws to work out, but he's in the best possible spot to develop.
Washington is blessed with an abundance of backend options despite allowing Kamren Curl to sign for the Los Angeles Rams in free agency. Darrick Forrest, Jeremy Chinn, Quan Martin, Percy Butler, and All-Pro special teamer Jeremy Reaves all fancy their chances of extended involvement. Forcing his way into the team's plans looks difficult, but Hampton is more than up for the challenge.
If those in power decide that Hampton needs a little more development, they could look to place him on the practice squad. That's a worst-case scenario, but one that cannot be completely dismissed looking at the Commanders' safety options - all of whom are probably in front of him right now.
In this scenario, a team who had their eye on Hampton during the draft before Washington snatched him in the sixth round might scoop him off the waiver wire.
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