5 vulnerable Commanders who could be sacrificed for 2024 waiver claims

Trent Scott - Commanders OT

The Washington Commanders didn't throw up many surprises on the offensive line after their final cuts were confirmed. Last year's third-round selection Ricky Stromberg was released after those in power failed to find a willing trade partner. Aside from that, everyone who was expected to make it found themselves on the initial 53-man roster.

That was a positive development for someone like Trent Scott. But if the veteran offensive tackle feels a sense of confidence about his fate, he might want to think twice.

Scott's performance levels over the preseason were indifferent at best. He's limited in pass protection and has lost some core power on running-downs. If the Commanders feel like an upgrade can be found through a vested veteran or waiver wire claim, they'd be foolish not to consider it.

Adam Peters cannot get complacent, nor will he. Scott has experience - albeit with inconsistent production in a competitive setting attached. That shouldn't be enough to keep him from the chop if a more enticing option is there for the taking.

John Ridgeway III - Commanders DT

Speculation emerged earlier in the day that the Washington Commanders were trying to trade defensive tackle John Ridgeway III before final cuts. John Keim of ESPN reported that there was interest in the player without anything concrete emerging. The Commanders kept him around, but for how much longer remains to be seen.

It seems for all the smart money that those in power prefer Phidarian Mathis to Ridgeway. Whether he's on the team to continue trade talks with willing suitors hasn't been disclosed. A situation could also emerge where he's removed from the equation for a waiver wire claim when push comes to shove.

Ideally, the Commanders would get something back in return for Ridgeway that frees up a roster spot for someone else. Regardless of which way it goes, the interior presence looks like the odd man out behind Jonathan Allen, Daron Payne, second-round rookie Johnny Newton, and Mathis.

Trading Ridgeway is the best-case scenario for all parties. If not, he's a prime candidate to be gone in favor of another addition from the waiver wire pool.