5 huge disappointments from Commanders loss vs. the 49ers in Week 17

Commanders cornerbacks

Against the New York Jets, special teamers Tariq Castro-Fields and Christian Holmes both had forgettable games. With Kendall Fuller and Benjamin St-Juste unavailable to play against the San Francisco 49ers, both Washington Commanders' backups were slated to get a lot of snaps on defense.

Castro-Fields, who I have always thought could be a decent boundary cornerback, started. Holmes was the first corner off the bench. Both made some good plays early on. And then both almost immediately got hurt.

Holmes’ injury was particularly scary since he seemed to collapse without contact. Neither was able to return to the game. Somewhere along the way, the Commanders capitulated.

When a player like Jacoby Brissett cannot suit up because of injury, it may be disappointing, but it is hardly life-altering. He is a veteran with a track record. For the two young cornerbacks, this may have been their one big chance to show what they can do.

Both were playing well when they got hurt. Castro-Fields suffered a shoulder injury and Holmes went down with a concussion. Hopefully, both will make full recoveries. And hopefully, both will get more chance to show what they do on the field in 2024.

But with a new coaching regime imminent, there's just no telling for sure.