7 Commanders players in precarious situations despite 2024 reprieve

Jamin Davis - Commanders LB/DE

Jamin Davis' future was hanging in the balance this offseason. The Washington Commanders declined his fifth-year option as expected. They also opted to switch the former first-round pick's primary position throughout a frantic offseason of alterations across the board.

Instead of manning responsibilities at the defensive second level, the coaching staff thought they could get more out of Davis as an edge rusher. It was a difficult adjustment initially. However, the light's come on in recent weeks with some encouraging progress in practice and during his preseason involvement.

This was enough for the Commanders to take him through onto the 53-man roster over the likes of ascending pass-rusher K.J. Henry. It also gives Davis a chance to continue his development, with former pass-rushing great Ryan Kerrigan playing a leading role in his growth so far.

The stakes couldn't be much higher for Davis heading into the campaign. If he becomes a productive edge threat and adds an element of explosiveness that was sorely lacking over the second half of 2023, general manager Adam Peters will likely reward the Kentucky product with a lucrative contract extension.

If not, he'll be removed from the equation with little fanfare attached.

Phidarian Mathis - Commanders DL

Phidarian Mathis came into the offseason with some serious questions about his long-term outlook. The defensive tackle once again underwhelmed when on the field in 2023 and also went through more injury concerns. Considering general manager Adam Peters' willingness to remove Ron Rivera draft picks from the equation, many thought the former second-round selection would be made surplus to requirements.

The Commanders must have liked what they saw from Mathis with his back against the wall. He displayed notable improvements as camp wore on and shone on occasions during the preseason. This left John Ridgeway III on the outside looking in once his trade to the New Orleans Saints was confirmed.

This is a rare positive development for Mathis, but his prospects beyond the current campaign are not set in stone by any stretch of the imagination. The Alabama product is behind Jonathan Allen, Daron Payne, and second-round rookie Johnny Newton on the depth chart. Making every rep during the regular season count - even when called upon on special teams - is essential.

Mathis earned the right to get another opportunity. What comes next is even more pivotal.

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