5 realistic objectives the Washington Commanders must achieve in 2024
By Dean Jones
Commanders must gain more sacks
The Washington Commanders had trouble generating consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks throughout the 2023 season. Things weren't especially promising even before the defensive end tandem of Montez Sweat and Chase Young were traded. It got even worse after.
Washington's only promising edge rusher last season was unceremoniously removed by the new regime. K.J. Henry suffered the disappointment of being cut as the Commanders finalized their 53-man roster despite making encouraging strides over the summer. The former fifth-round pick landed with the Cincinnati Bengals and could become impactful on the rotation.
The Commanders have confidence in their pass-rushing options heading into Week 1 at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Increasing their 2.3 sacks per game in 2023 - ranked No. 26 league-wide - is essential for Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr.'s defense to be potentially dominant this time around.
Those in power believe the personnel and scheme are in place to thrive. That said, silencing some increasing doubters over the first few weeks of the season is paramount.
Commanders must run the football more
Eric Bieniemy came to the Commanders with a glowing reputation. The offensive coordinator wanted to run the show and get out of Andy Reid's shadow after winning two Super Bowls with the Kansas City Chiefs. This was supposed to be his final stumbling block to navigate before getting a long-awaited head coaching opportunity.
It didn't take long for this positivity to disintegrate. Players were unhappy with Bieniemy's coaching methods, even demanding Ron Rivera take back power. The schematic concepts were one-dimensional., focusing too much on passing and placing far unnecessary pressure on a woeful offensive line.
Not having a balanced offense proved detrimental. The Commanders were playing from behind a lot, but just 21.1 rushing attempts per game in 2023 was inexcusable. Something new play-caller Kliff Kingsbury must change with Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler leading the charge.
Robinson and Ekeler look like a potentially potent running back tandem if used correctly. Kingsbury's already made this an intention, which should also provide rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels with a security blanket during his pivotal early transition.