5 Commanders who could be benched after Week 1 loss at the Buccaneers
By Dean Jones
Quan Martin - Commanders S
There was a real sense of intrigue about the Washington Commanders' defense heading into their regular-season opener at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The presence of head coach Dan Quinn's improved schematic concepts and defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr.'s motivational techniques left reasons for encouragement. However, it might take time for their efforts to bear fruit based on initial impressions.
Not many Commanders defenders covered themselves in glory upon further examination of the game film. Big things were expected of promising second-year defensive back Quan Martin heading into the clash. It's only one game, but the former second-round selection didn't meet loftier expectations.
Martin was sluggish against the run and looked a little lost in coverage support. He was on the field for 92 percent of the team's defensive snaps, but his 46.0 grade from Pro Football Focus was a fair reflection of his overall contribution.
The Commanders aren't short of options in their safety room. Benching Martin after one game seems unlikely, but it becomes more realistic if the same trend continues and the likes of Percy Butler and Tyler Owens continue to develop.
Dyami Brown - Commanders WR
Dyami Brown saw his snap percentage surge to 56 percent at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This was a large increase from the 23% he attained last season - representing a reward for his outstanding application throughout the offseason.
Brown was one of the summer's stars. Fans were more interested in what the wide receiver could do in a competitive setting. He has no trouble flashing in camp or the preseason. Things get more difficult for the former third-round selection when the real action arrives.
That proved to be the case once again in Week 1. Despite Brown's prominent involvement - only Luke McCaffrey and Terry McLaurin played more in the wideout room - he couldn't create separation and was held without a single target. This was extremely disappointing considering his blossoming chemistry with first-year quarterback Jayden Daniels over the summer.
With Noah Brown working his way into a potential role after his late arrival, the situation is precarious for the North Carolina product. He'll know that the free-agent signing has similar traits and better production - albeit in flashes. That leaves his fortunes hanging by a thread unless he somehow raises performance levels.