7 Commanders players on the hot seat entering Preseason Week 3 vs Patriots
By Dean Jones
Dan Quinn takes charge of his first home game as Washington Commanders head coach against the New England Patriots in Preseason Week 3. This is also the last chance for those fighting for roster spots to make their presence felt before those in power begin to make some tough choices.
Things are hanging precariously for many. Quinn stated there are around 10 position battles yet to be decided. How players perform in Washington's preseason finale could make a huge difference with final cuts on the immediate horizon.
The Commanders aren't expected to risk their established starters - including rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels - for the clash. This represents a final audition for many. Some will thrive under the spotlight. Others will fall by the wayside and will be cast aside by new general manager Adam Peters if they don't fit into his newfound way of thinking.
With this in mind, here are seven Commanders players firmly on the hot seat entering Preseason Week 3 against the Patriots.
Commanders players on the hot seat entering Preseason Week 3
Chigozie Anusiem - Commanders CB
The cornerback room is one of the team's biggest question marks. Rookie second-rounder Mike Sainristil looks like the only dependable presence and he's yet to play a regular season contest. That's a major concern - one that could jeopardize their hopes of making immediate improvements in 2024.
A couple of spots are up for grabs for anyone who takes one last surge. Chigozie Anusiem could be the guy if everything goes according to plan during the Washington Commanders' last warmup outing.
Anusiem was coveted by half the league after going undrafted. He chose the Commanders because there was a legitimate opportunity to attain a roster spot. He's also got the size and physical profile head coach Dan Quinn looks for in his defensive backs within his creative schematic concepts.
It's been an impressive summer for the Colorado State product. If the same trend continues against the New England Patriots, there's a good chance Anusiem finds himself on the initial 53-man roster.