7 Commanders players on the hot seat entering Preseason Week 1
By Dean Jones
After almost three weeks of training camp practices, the Washington Commanders are gearing up for their preseason opener at the New York Jets. There is a small matter of joint practice with Robert Saleh's club first, so business is ramping up as preparations for the 2024 campaign gather pace.
This represents another opportunity for the Commanders to build on their newly-acquired momentum this offseason. The positivity brings increased expectancy - something that is not lost on head coach Dan Quinn as he looks to maximize his second chance in the driver's seat. He'll be demanding the same standards throughout the preseason as players fight with everything they have to alter perceptions and enhance credentials.
Preseason results matter little in the grand scheme of things. However, this is the last chance some players will ever have of proving they belong in the NFL. That, above all else, is the most fascinating dynamic.
With this in mind, here are seven Commanders players on the hot seat entering their preseason curtain raiser at MetLife Stadium.
Commanders players on the hot seat entering Preseason Week 1
Phidarian Mathis - Commanders DT
It's now or never for Phidarian Mathis. The Washington Commanders strengthened their defensive tackle options by taking Johnny Newton at No. 36 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. They also signed Taylor Stallworth during camp, so the need to finally realize his potential couldn't be more obvious.
Mathis has the physical tools. Injuries haven't helped over his opening two seasons, but the pressure to perform is there for all to see.
The former Alabama star will get plenty of reps during preseason. They are much needed. A high-end second-round pick such as Mathis should stand out considerably when going up against second and third-stringers. Anything less won't look favorably on the interior presence.
Adam Peters has shown no remorse when it comes to removing draft picks from the Ron Rivera era so far. Unless Mathis establishes his credentials and dominates, he could be another deemed surplus to requirements.