5 Commanders tumbling down the depth chart at 2024 training camp

Percy Butler - Commanders S

Percy Butler played more than many anticipated last season. The Washington Commanders were forced into their contingency plan when starting safety Darrick Forrest went down with an early injury. He flashed some promise, but there are severe deficiencies in his game that need to be alleviated as a matter of urgency.

Butler achieved 64 tackles and made a difference against the run on occasion. However, the former fourth-round selection couldn't cope effectively in coverage more often than not, giving up 59.4 percent of his targets and a 136. 7 passer rating when targeted. This is the most concerning element of his output by a considerable margin.

The Commanders weren't going to wait around on the off chance Butler made the improvements needed. Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. are moving forward with Jeremy Chinn and Quan Martin as their starting safety duo. Forrest and Jeremy Reaves are listed as the two primary backups, leaving the Louisiana product and rookie Dominique Hamption as the third-string right now.

Much will depend on how many safeties the Commanders take through onto their 53-man roster. Considering how high the coaching staff is on the sixth-round selection out of Washington, a situation could emerge where Butler is deemed surplus to requirements.

Jamin Davis - Commanders OLB

Jamin Davis was the only linebacker under Ron Rivera who looked capable of half-decent production. The former first-round selection muddled along without hitting the heights expected of his lofty draft status over his first three years in the league. His performance levels were decent, but not enough to justify an undisputed starting gig under the new regime.

The Commanders are trying something different with Davis this summer. With free-agent signings Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu as their starting linebacker tandem, Dan Quinn is transitioning the Kentucky product into an edge rusher, although the head coach stated that he could be deployed at the defensive second level on first and second down depending on the situation.

Davis is reportedly going through some growing pains as he adjusts to new responsibilities. He's currently listed as a backup outside linebacker behind veteran Dante Fowler Jr., who's already earned the trust of Quinn from their time working together with the Atlanta Falcons and Dallas Cowboys.

This is a huge test of character for Davis. Either he steps up and leaves no doubt as to his importance or this could be his final season with the Commanders. That's the high-stakes situation facing the once-promising prospect in 2024.

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