7 Commanders players entering the last chance saloon in 2024

Jamin Davis - Commanders LB

After fighting almost a solo battle at the defensive second level in recent years, Jamin Davis has some help this time around. The Washington Commanders made strengthening their linebacking corps a top priority in free agency, acquiring Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu to instantly upgrade their options after Adam Peters gave the opposition group the respect it deserved at long last.

Wagner and Luvu are two of the best around and should make their presence felt right out of the gate. This also hints at a position switch of sorts for Davis, who could be deployed on the edge to make better use of his outstanding athletic attributes.

The former first-round pick out of Kentucky should thrive under Dan Quinn's guidance. Having two prominent veterans to lean on for guidance is something else he hasn't benefitted from previously. But what comes next is critical after the Commanders opted not to pick up his fifth-year option.

Davis must prove his worth in a contract year to justify a bigger financial commitment. He's been a steady performer in difficult circumstances up to this point, but mediocre is not going to be good enough under the new regime.

Jeremy Chinn - Commanders S/LB

The Commanders have given Jeremy Chinn a fresh start this offseason. His time with the Carolina Panthers rapidly disintegrated after defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero couldn't find a prominent role for the player within his creative 3-4 base scheme. This is the chance to prove him and his increasing doubters wrong.

Chinn has the athletic attributes that Dan Quinn's typically brought to life previously. The former second-round pick actively chose this destination despite interest from elsewhere. Hopefully, the coaching staff can inspire him enough to return to something like his old form.

It wasn't that long ago Chinn took the league by storm as a rookie in 2020. His versatility, explosiveness, and instincts made him a big play waiting to happen - how Quinn and his staff nurture this is going to be key during a potential road to redemption.

The signs are positive, but the Commanders hedged their bets by handing Chinn a one-year, prove-it deal. This could provide the motivation he needs to excel. It also allows Adam Peters the chance to move off the do-it-all defender if he cannot rise to the occasion accordingly.