5 Commanders players on the hot seat entering Week 2 vs. NY Giants
By Dean Jones
Noah Igbinoghene - Commanders CB
The Washington Commanders will be without Emmanuel Forbes Jr. in Week 2 after the cornerback had surgery to repair a UCL tear in his thumb. Dan Quinn stated it's not serious enough to put him on injured reserve. Some fans have also speculated that the secondary might be better off without the struggling second-year pro following another woeful showing to start the season.
This scenario only comes to fruition if others on the cornerback depth chart step up. Michael Davis should see some time on the field after not logging a single defensive snap in Week 1. Noah Igbinoghene could be another who benefits greatly from Forbes' absence given he was the one who came in for the former first-round pick at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Igbinoghene has Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr.'s trust. He was also Washington's best performer on pass defense, which isn't exactly a high bar considering how many fluffed their lines to begin this exciting new era.
This is a big game for Igbinoghene, who needs to keep tabs on the New York Giants wide receivers and keep them quiet. Anything less comes with potentially grave consequences attached.
Bobby Wagner - Commanders LB
Bobby Wagner got his customary tackle numbers in Week 1 at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. That's almost a guarantee where the future Pro Football Hall of Fame linebacker is concerned, but it was a less-than-steller performance overall upon further examination of the game film.
Wagner made tackles. Unfortunately for the Commanders, they didn't arrive until way into the play when significant yards had been gained more often than not. The veteran's diminishing credentials in coverage were also exposed, so a big effort is needed this weekend versus the New York Giants.
For all Daniel Jones' faults, and there are plenty of them, he's a mobile quarterback who's had no trouble gaining success against the Commanders throughout his rollercoaster career. Keeping the signal-caller contained and making tackles count is crucial. That's why Wagner's role is so integral to his team's chances.
Nobody should be too concerned about Wagner's indifferent opening to the campaign. At the same time, he needs to put in a stronger performance in this one as Washington looks to get its home engagements off to the best possible start.
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