7 Commanders players firmly on the hot seat at 2024 training camp

Jonathan Allen - Commanders DT

Jonathan Allen cut a disenchanted figure during Ron Rivera's final season as head coach. His frustrations were not well hidden. The defensive tackle often voiced them to the media as another campaign descended into chaos. He even hinted that his future might lie away from the Washington Commanders if something drastic wasn't implemented throughout the offseason.

The Commanders held up their end of the bargain by making wholesale alterations across the board. This gave Allen a new spring in his step. He's responding well to Dan Quinn's coaching methods and seems excited about what the future might hold within more creative defensive schematic concepts.

Allen was the subject of trade speculation throughout the offseason despite the Commanders showing no desire to remove the former first-round pick. That was a supreme vote of confidence, but it doesn't detract from what a pivotal campaign awaits the respected locker room leader next time around.

There's no doubt Allen regressed last season. Whether that was down to the team's predicament or something more concerning is anyone's guess. Putting together a strong training camp under Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr.'s exceptional guidance will alleviate any remaining doubts.

Jamin Davis - Commanders LB

It wasn't Jamin Davis' fault that his position group received no support from the previous regime. The former first-round pick was forced to man the linebacking corps almost single-handed after a series of failed draft selections and indifferent free-agent signings. He performed adequately in difficult circumstances, but it wasn't enough to get his fifth-year option picked up.

It's officially a contract year for Davis. If that wasn't motivation enough, there's also a much-improved supporting cast at the defensive second level thanks to the impressive signings of Frankie Luvu and Booby Wagner.

This should take the pressure off Davis enormously. Based on what we've seen over early workouts, Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. plan to utilize the Kentucky product more on the edge. This should maximize the outstanding physical gifts at his disposal and provide a level of explosiveness that was lost once Montez Sweat and Chase Young were traded.

The stakes are high for Davis in 2024. He needs to prove worthy of a longer-term commitment and impress a fresh set of eyes. This starts by setting the tone and showing out during Washington's training camp.