5 Commanders players who cannot afford to regress in Week 2 vs. NY Giants
By Dean Jones
Things didn't end up going well for the Washington Commanders during their first regular-season game under head coach Dan Quinn. That sapped energy from the fanbase to a certain extent, but they should be re-energized heading into their home opener against the New York Giants.
If the fanbase had quiet confidence around the team's chances at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, expectancy is sure to be through the roof for this one. The Giants capitulated at home to the Minnesota Vikings, which saw veteran quarterback Daniel Jones come in for more scathing attacks from the media and supporters alike.
New York can be a brutal market when things aren't going well. However, they've got a good record over the Commanders in recent years and want that to continue.
Quinn and his staff will know much more about their players after seeing them in a competitive setting. The players should also be better for the experience, knowing what looked good and what needs to improve before they take the field at the newly named Northwest Stadium this weekend.
With that being said, here are five Commanders players who cannot afford to regress in Week 2 versus the Giants.
Commanders players who cannot afford to regress in Week 2 vs. NY Giants
Tress Way - Commanders P
There were slight concerns about Tress Way heading into the season. The veteran punter remains a respected figure within the locker room and one of the team's longest-serving players. However, he displayed notable regression in 2023 which meant his prospects were hanging in the balance.
This bears more significance when one considers it's a contract year for Way and general manager Adam Peters' ruthless roster-building approach. The two-time Pro Bowler got off to a promising start against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, gaining a 46.3 punt yards average. Only one attempt when inside the 20-yard line, which was thanks in no small part to the field position Washington found itself in.
Way's performance will be crucial when called upon in Week 2 versus the New York Giants. Giving troubled quarterback Daniel Jones long fields to work with is only going to make the signal-caller shakier. That's something the Commanders' defense can capitalize on if they make the necessary adjustments following a woeful outing to begin the campaign.