7 Commanders players (and coaches) that won't be back in 2024
By Dean Jones
Saahdiq Charles - Commanders OL
Despite displaying very little in the way of consistency since being drafted, the Washington Commanders were intent on giving Saahiq Charles one more opportunity to prove himself in 2023. The physical tools have never been in question where the former LSU star is concerned, so those in power were banking on an offseason revamp along the offensive line providing the spark needed to progress.
Once again, this was ill-advised. Charles struggled mightily at the left guard position before his annual trip to injured/reserve, which leaves his future with the Commanders hanging by a thread.
Charles is sluggish getting out of his stance. Despite playing left tackle in college, he lacks the necessary agility to cope consistently with interior pass-rushers more often than not.
Not exactly the best combination for NFL-caliber productivity. Whether Charles gets another chance from a starting position in 2023 once he gets back to full health is moot - the Commanders must move on for this particular experiment when his contract expires next spring.
With three sacks conceded and three penalties allowed from 444 snaps this season, this wasn't the upturn Washington hoped for. And the added incentive of being in a contract year hasn't helped, either.
A fresh start is the best thing for all parties involved.