4 post-June 1 cuts the Washington Commanders must consider in 2023
By Dean Jones
Andrew Norwell - Commanders OL
- Cap saving - $4.38 million
When Andrew Norwell linked back up with the head coach that turned him from an undrafted free agent into an All-Pro, the upside was evident. Unfortunately for the player and the Washington Commanders, the reunion didn't go as many anticipated.
Ron Rivera clearly thinks a lot of Norwell, who developed significantly under his guidance on the Carolina Panthers. It was clear from pretty early on that the same level of success wasn't going to transpire in a different environment, with the Ohio State product giving up four sacks and conceding five penalties from 1,120 snaps en route to a 59.8 grade from Pro Football Focus.
Perhaps the most concerning issue on Norwell's part was his inability to become an asset on running downs. This has been a calling card of sorts throughout the player's career and without it, other areas of his game were exposed.
The Commanders wasted no time in strengthening their interior protection this offseason. Looking at the current state of affairs, cutting Norwell to save $4.38 million seems like a realistic scenario.
Norwell's close ties to Rivera make this difficult. However, the head coach has no room for sentiment given how precarious his own job prospects are heading into the 2023 campaign.