7 Commanders players in precarious situations despite 2024 reprieve

Emmanuel Forbes Jr. - Commanders CB

Emmanuel Forbes Jr. was praised by general manager Adam Peters for his outstanding improvements this offseason. The cornerback faced an uncertain future following a disastrous rookie campaign in 2023 after being taken No. 16 overall in the draft. It hasn't been perfect, but those in power believe the former first-round pick is on the right track.

Aside from getting burned constantly against Garrett Wilson during a joint practice with the New York Jets, it's been relatively pleasing from Forbes' perspective. He's bulked up to cope with Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr.'s physical demands. However, putting him versus No. 1 or even No. 2 wide receivers could be a gamble until further notice.

How the Commanders utilize Forbes within their new schematic concepts will be telling. He was deserving of another look in 2024. This is also an ongoing assessment of the Mississippi State product regarding his long-term aspirations in Washington.

Ron Rivera thought Forbes had shutdown capabilities. The jury is still out on that, but he's in the right environment to thrive working with Quinn and Whitt - two accomplished developers of defensive backs with proven credentials.

Andrew Wylie - Commanders OT

The Commanders' offensive line could be their undoing once again in 2024. There are new faces who must mesh together quickly. Coaches seem relatively pleased with the way things are going, with rookie third-rounder Brandon Coleman also returning to practice in full capacity after missing some time with a shoulder issue to potentially be the Week 1 starter at left tackle.

Washington's protection has a genuine franchise-caliber quarterback to support this time around. Jayden Daniels has all the tools needed to excel, but he'll need them to keep his pocket clean with more frequency. The ramifications will be borderline catastrophic if last season's problems continue.

Andrew Wylie is under a bigger microscope than most. The veteran right tackle went through his fair share of complications in Year 1 with the franchise. Washington's new regime is willing to give him another go-around considering it made no financial sense to cut him loose. That won't be the case next offseason if performances aren't up to the required standard.

Wylie must impose himself and improve consistency as a pass blocker. Anything less will see the Commanders go in a different direction with $7.75 million in salary-cap savings attached.