4 recent Commanders draft picks with genuine breakout potential in 2024

Quan Martin - Commanders DB

It wasn't long ago that Quan Martin was being hailed for his preseason performances and seen as an up-and-coming player to watch on the defense. It was followed up by his not seeing a single snap on the rotation during the first quarter of his debut NFL campaign.

With Kamren Curl and Kendall Fuller both having been allowed to walk, this could have something to do with the promise that Martin began to show later in the year. After all, out of the two defensive backs taken early in last year's draft, the former second-round pick out of Illinois showed more promise down the stretch.

He began to play quite well and became a difference-maker on occasion. Despite limited opportunities, Martin finished the season with two interceptions and looked the part as a big nickel who could also move into the safety position when required. This is the sort of versatility head coach Dan Quinn loves in his players.

It's possible, like Emmanuel Forbes before him, that the new Washington Commanders coaches running the organization believe Martin could be an integral piece moving forward, allowing them to move off players who would demand much more financially.

If these two rookies can be brought up the right way, then Quinn could make Martin and Forbes focal points of their pass defense for years to come.

Out of the two, Martin has thus far made the best case for himself.