6 former Commanders players who'll be missed the most in 2024
By Seth Jones
Kendall Fuller - Former Commanders CB
We all know how awful the Washington Commanders’ pass defense looked in 2023, but there is one guy who has been a consistent bright spot in a cornerback room that has struggled the last few years. Kendall Fuller.
Fuller was strong in coverage and against the run in 2023. He had the seventh-best grade from Pro Football Focus among all cornerbacks at 83.1. This was his second stint with Washington, and it didn’t disappoint.
The former Virginia Tech star hauled in 10 interceptions in the last four years with the Commanders. But it seemed from a long way out as if another parting of the ways was inevitable.
Fuller left Washington to sign with the Miami Dolphins on a two-year deal worth $15 million. This left the Commanders’ cornerback room pretty depleted.
There is optimism that second-round pick Mike Sanristil can prove he is the elite defensive back he was drafted to be. Hopefully, Emmanuel Forbes bounces back and Benjamin St-Just thrives under Dan Quinn. However, this cornerback room is downgraded with the loss of Fuller.
Curtis Samuel - Former Commanders WR
Curtis Samuel is an extremely versatile offensive weapon that is almost like a lesser version of Deebo Samuel. He can line up anywhere on the field and even take handoffs. A Swiss army knife like this is very valuable to an offense.
Samuel’s stint with Washington was not as impactful as Commanders fans expected. Most of this was due to injury. When the wideout was on the field, he performed competently.
The former second-round pick out of Ohio State reunited with his former offensive coordinator Joe Brady by signing with the Buffalo Bills. Samuel’s replacement, Luke McCaffrey, was picked in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft.
McCaffrey will eventually be a competent replacement, he is still learning the position. While the rookie is developing, this young offense will undoubtedly miss Samuel.