7 Commanders players firmly on the roster bubble heading into 2024 camp

John Ridgeway III - Commanders DT

Adam Peters stopped at nothing to improve all areas of the roster. The defensive tackle position looked like an area of strength with sufficient depth. That didn't prevent the new general manager from grasping a significant opportunity when it came along.

The Washington Commanders couldn't believe their luck when Johnny Newton fell out of the first round and into their grasp at No. 36 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. He'll feature prominently depending on the schematic alignment once medically cleared to participate. The former Illinois standout will also immediately become the primary backup to defensive tackle tandem Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne.

This raises the stakes for others vying for playing time. It might be a fight between Phidarian Mathis and John Ridgeway III for a roster spot. Both could make it, but this seems unlikely due to Newton's presence and expected rookie role.

Mathis is a tough evaluation thanks to his injury struggles over the last two seasons. There is more film on Ridgeway. Not much of it is promising, so the lineman needs to put together a rousing effort throughout camp in pursuit of getting another shot with the Commanders in 2024.

John Bates - Commanders TE

This might come as a surprise. John Bates is a decent blocking option at the tight end position. He's developed a niche in this discipline and has a decent chance of making the 53-man roster under the new regime. However, nothing is guaranteed.

The Commanders acquired two tight ends this offseason. Zach Ertz represents a capable flex option in the passing game. He's coming to the end of his prolific career, but a strong start to early offseason workouts indicates there could be something left in the tank.

Washington also spent a second-round selection on Ben Sinnott. His outstanding blocking - either in-line or on the move - jeopardizes Bates' chances to a certain extent. If the rookie thrives immediately and someone like Cole Turner or Armani Rogers steps up, a situation could emerge where the former fourth-round pick out of Boise State is deemed surplus to requirements.

That's a worst-case scenario for the player. Bates will be striving to ensure this doesn't become a reality, but the margin for error got slimmer thanks to Sinnott's arrival at No. 53 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft.