4 winners and losers from Commanders' early offseason workouts in 2023
By Dean Jones
Who were the winners and losers from an eventful early offseason workout schedule for the Washington Commanders ahead of the 2023 season?
It proved to be a fascinating start to the Washington Commanders' preparations for the 2023 season. While the $6.05 billion franchise sale edges closer to receiving formal NFL approval, Ron Rivera and his staff have been molding their players, getting them familiar with scheme alterations, and integrating new members of the organization during the bedding-in period before training camp.
This no doubt provided Rivera with food for thought. He'll assess and contemplate what's next in the coming weeks before descending on Ashburn for camp, which has 12 sessions open to the public and also includes a trip for joint practices with the Baltimore Ravens.
Some players have come to the fore encouragingly. Others have treaded water and there are those who've endured some torrid luck along the way.
With that being said, here are four winners and losers from the Commanders' early off-season workouts in 2023.
Winner: Chris Paul - Commanders OL
While he might not have cracked the starting offensive line unit just yet, Chris Paul isn't far away after an outstanding offseason so far. The former seventh-round pick has come on a significant amount from his rookie campaign, displaying improved production and the position versatility head coach Ron Rivera loves in his protectors.
It seems like a fight between Paul and Saahdiq Charles for the No. 1 left guard spot next to Charles Leno Jr. and free-agent signing Nick Gates. A slight preference is for the one-time LSU star currently, but the second-year-pro has put himself in a tremendous position heading into the summer break.
If Paul could progress into a dependable swing option at worst, it's far better than most expected of a late Day 3 selection. Based on how things are unfolding for the Tulsa product, nothing can be dismissed.