5 difficult decisions facing the Commanders coaching staff in Week 1

Emmanuel Forbes Jr.'s role

Emmanuel Forbes Jr.'s development this offseason was praised by new general manager Adam Peters. That was a big positive despite things not being perfect all the time. However, the Washington Commanders must figure out how much workload the cornerback can handle in Week 1 at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Forbes has spoken about embracing the challenge of going up against Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. That's the right attitude to have, but the jury is out as to whether or not he can cope with significant responsibilities after how things went as a rookie.

The Commanders should have a good indication of where Forbes is and what more might be needed to progress. They have Benjamin St-Juste and Michael Davis capable of picking up the slack. Introducing the former Mississippi State star gradually rather than throwing him straight into the firing line would be smart. That enables the 2023 first-round pick to build up confidence while still making some sort of contribution.

There are concerns about the Commanders' cornerback room aside from rookie second-rounder Mike Sainristil. If Forbes bounces back en route to silencing his doubters, it'll be like another new signing.

Brandon Coleman's involvement

Brandon Coleman was listed as a full participant over practice to start the week. The rookie left tackle is raring to go and wants to start in Week 1. Unfortunately, that decision is out of his hands.

Coleman was generating some real momentum in training camp before a shoulder injury denied him valuable reps during the preseason. This was just a minor setback, but head coach Dan Quinn must decide whether to throw the third-round pick in at the deep end or give him some extra time.

Cornelius Lucas - who lost the No. 1 left tackle spot to Coleman initially - has been getting first-team reps on the blindside according to the media in attendance at practice. This would indicate he'll be in the lineup, although nothing has been confirmed one way or another right now.

The Commanders need to get this decision correct. Jayden Daniels cannot afford inconsistent protection in pursuit of hitting the ground running in 2024. Coleman represents the unknown quantity, albeit with outstanding athletic gifts and more upside. Lucas has the experience, so that might be the call when push comes to shove.

If Lucas starts and struggles, expect Coleman to be introduced quickly.

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