7 Commanders players on the hot seat entering Preseason Week 2 at Dolphins

These Commanders players are under pressure to produce the goods.
Jeff Driskel
Jeff Driskel / Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
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Jeff Driskel - Commanders QB

Jayden Daniels is unlikely to play much in Preseason Week 2. Marcus Mariota is currently dealing with an injury and won't feature. Sam Hartman - the undrafted free agent out of Notre Dame - is also on the shelf. This is Jeff Driskel's moment to shine in no uncertain terms.

The Washington Commanders signed Trey McSorley to give themselves another option under center with the familiarity of Kliff Kingsbury's schematic demands. However, it would be a huge surprise if Driskel didn't play most of the game given the new arrival hasn't had much time to develop chemistry.

Driskel is an experienced veteran without ever firmly establishing himself as a starting option. His time as No. 1 on the Cleveland Browns in 2023 was incredibly brief, but he's solid enough to get the football where it needs to go if the protection is up to the required standard.

It seems unlikely that Driskel will unseat Mariota for the primary backup role behind Daniels when the regular season commences. That said, if he can show out and put together a standout effort at Hard Rock Stadium, it'll provide those in power with plenty to think about before final cuts.

Jamin Davis - Commanders DE/OLB

Jamin Davis played deep into Washington's preseason opener at the New York Jets. He's looking to firmly establish himself as an edge rushing force after making a pivotal position switch this summer. The former first-round pick's roster spot doesn't appear to be in any great jeopardy, but he could use a few confidence-boosting moments before Week 1 rolls around.

Davis should spend time in his more typical linebacker spot on first and second downs. He's not going to unseat Bobby Wagner or Frankie Luvu in third-down situations, so making his presence felt as a pure pass-rusher is the only way to stay on the field.

The jury is still out right now. Davis has taken on coaching and absorbed a significant amount of information under the new coaching staff. Improvements are gradually arriving, which is something the Kentucky product must display to full effect when allocated reps versus the Miami Dolphins.

There's a lot to like about the explosiveness and overall athleticism Davis can bring to the edge role. At the same time, inspiring confidence heading into the regular season is integral to his hopes of extended involvement.

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