7 Commanders on the 53-man roster who might not last the entire 2024 season
By Dean Jones
Mykal Walker - Commanders LB
The Washington Commanders were dealt a blow throughout the preseason when rookie linebacker Jordan Magee's positive momentum came to an abrupt halt through injury. The first-year pro looked ready to assume a key rotational role behind Frankie Luvu and Bobby Wagner, but this will have to wait a few weeks after his knee issue that required a small procedure.
This forced the Commanders into a change of plans. Magee's disappointment enabled Mykal Walker to go through onto the 53-man roster at the expense of special teams ace Anthony Pittman. He's a solid veteran with plenty of starting experience - something Washington needs until Magee is ready to get back involved.
Walker must impress quickly when called upon to ensure he sees out the entire campaign. The Commanders are far more invested in Magee, so they'll want to get him involved once the former Temple star gets the all-clear. There's also the presence of Nick Bellore on the practice squad, who's a tremendous special teams presence and was beloved in the Seattle Seahawks locker room before his departure.
These factors are all working against Walker. It would be a big shock if he made it through the entire 17-game slate in Washington.
Michael Deiter - Commanders OL
If there was one potential problem that could hold the Washington Commanders back in 2024, it's the offensive line. Nothing new to fans who've followed the team closely in recent years as previous head coach Ron Rivera inherited a highly productive unit and decimated it through poor personnel decisions.
Things look more promising this time around. Brandon Coleman, Nick Allegretti, and Tyler Biadasz are three new starters who should provide an upgrade. Andrew Wylie remains at right tackle with his future hanging in the balance. Sam Cosmi is the star right guard who could potentially secure a lucrative contract extension at some stage during the campaign.
Depth is an issue. Michael Deiter is slotted as the backup center behind Biadasz. However, his subpar efforts throughout the preseason didn't instill much confidence if he were to get reps in the starting lineup.
Deiter's progress will be monitored closely by the new regime, even in practice. If they don't like the way he's progressing and a better veteran option becomes available, Adam Peters has the ruthless conviction to make him surplus to requirements.