5 Commanders players lucky to escape Adam Peters' initial roster cull
By Dean Jones
Efe Obada - Commanders DL
Efe Obada is a good player and is a fantastic feel-good story. The defensive lineman has proven his worth as a dependable, versatile option on the rotation capable of stepping in at a moment's notice to make his presence felt. That said, a serious injury suffered during the 2023 season was a devastating blow.
Obada broke his leg after just five games. The Nigerian-born player faced a long road back to health. As it turned out, a heartfelt text of support from Dan Quinn provided the spark to the pair joining forces with the Washington Commanders this offseason.
After winning over Adam Peters and Josh Harris' ownership group, Quinn got his second head coaching opportunity in the nation's capital. Obada's future was less certain given his injury and the fact he was out of contract.
Not many anticipated the Commanders keeping Obada around. Considering Peters' intent to adopt a business-first model with no sentiment attached to the team's decision-making process, it wasn't looking too promising for an extended stay.
However, Obada got another one-year deal. This might have come on the recommendation of Quinn, who thinks highly of the player and wants to see what he can offer once Washington's medical staff gives him the all-clear to resume football activities. The Commanders acquired several free-agent veterans to bolster their defensive front, so his new contract comes with no guarantee he'll get prominent playing time - especially if another explosive weapon is acquired during the 2024 NFL Draft.
Despite the uncertainty, this represents the best possible outcome for Obada in the circumstances. It can be seen as a lucky escape to a certain extent, but Quinn becoming head coach represented the stars aligning for the veteran as he continues his road to recovery in the coming weeks.
What comes next is down to Obada. But he won't be found wanting for effort or taking anything for granted that's for sure.