5 players the Commanders can't afford to lose to injury in 2024
By Dean Jones
Dorance Armstrong Jr. - Commanders DE
Despite the vast roster overhaul implemented by Adam Peters this offseason, there are still some areas of concern. The Washington Commanders could have complications at the edge rushing position, although there is hope that the new faces can hit the ground running within Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr.'s expansive scheme.
Trading Chase Young and Montez Sweat before the 2023 deadline was seen as a necessary sacrifice for future prosperity. Several free agents came into the fold during free agency, with Dorance Armstrong Jr. perceived as the one with long-term upside rather than a short-term solution.
Armstrong played the best football of his professional career under Quinn's guidance. The pair developed a strong working relationship during their time with the Dallas Cowboys. When the respected coach made his bold switch to the nation's capital, it was widely anticipated that the pass-rusher would follow.
The former fourth-round selection is going from a rotational player to a focal point. It'll be interesting to see how Armstrong copes with these increased demands, but it seems like he can capitalize on the opportunity and prove to be a tremendous piece of business by those in power.
Should the player endure bad luck on the health front, the Commanders would have a problem on their hands. Dante Fowler Jr., Clelin Ferrell, and K.J. Henry have promise in their respective roles. Asking them to be genuine No. 1 pass-rushing weapons at differing stages of their respective careers is asking for trouble.
Others have bigger names and reputations, but that does not detract from how important Armstrong is to Washington's defensive plans next season. Quinn and Whitt trust him fully and he's only just entering his prime. He hasn't missed a contest for two seasons now, which is something else the player has working in his favor.
If Armstrong stays healthy and continues to ascend, it'll be a significant asset to a defense that couldn't get the job done last time around.