7 Commanders who could be entering their final season with the team in 2024
By Dean Jones
Cornelius Lucas - Commanders OT
If there was one potential flaw to Adam Peters' roster construction this offseason, it's at the offensive tackle positions. Andrew Wylie is getting another shot on the right-hand side after giving up countless pressures during his first season with the Washington Commanders. Things are even more unstable on the blindside unless third-round selection Brandon Coleman hits the ground running and alleviates concerns about his lack of NFL-caliber length.
Not many veterans were brought back by Peters. Cornelius Lucas was one of them and the general manager said he would have no problem starting the player or Trent Scott on the edge if the situation dictated.
Lucas is a dependable presence. However, he's not getting any younger and is seen more as a swing tackle than anything else at this stage of his career.
Coleman could be a long-term option and the Commanders have enough financial resources to make further moves should they wish, but they can ill-afford the protection becoming a weak link considering the substantial investment made in No. 2 pick Jayden Daniels. No matter which way it goes, this could be Lucas' final campaign in Washington after receiving a one-year extension.
Tress Way - Commanders P
Tress Way has been a franchise cornerstone for the Washington Commanders. This will be the Pro Bowl punter's 11th season with the franchise. He remains a hugely popular figure among the fanbase and a highly respected leader within the locker room. But all good things must come to an end at some point.
Way's production regressed last season, so a big bounce-back is needed heading into the final year of his deal. He's earned enough credit to see out his contract despite a new regime coming into the fold, but anything after the 2024 season remains uncertain.
The former Oklahoma college star is counting $3.75 million against Washington's salary cap next season. That's a lot of money for a punter, so the Commanders could take his contract expiration as an opportunity to get someone younger and cheaper with a longer-term upside.
Everyone is getting a chance to impress under Adam Peters and Dan Quinn. Still, those in power won't hesitate to remove Way or anyone else from the equation if they feel like it's the right thing to do.