7 Commanders players who can vastly outperform their pay grade in 2024
By Dean Jones
Tyler Biadasz - Commanders C
- 2024 salary-cap hit: $4.38 million
The Washington Commanders desperately needed to fill the gaping void at the center position this offseason. Chase Roullier's injury problems saw him released before retiring. Nick Gates was a dud free-agent signing who couldn't reach his billing. Third-round selection Ricky Stromberg never looked the part and was released with an injury settlement.
Washington thinks they've got the right guy in the form of Tyler Biadasz. The veteran comes highly recommended and worked with Dan Quinn on the Dallas Cowboys. His imposing start throughout the offseason only heightens encouragement that he can be a long-term solution as the offensive line anchor.
Biadasz's exceptional communication, assured pass blocking and ability to carve out running lanes make him a potentially outstanding addition. Aside from rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, he could be Washington's best offensive arrival when it's all said and done.
After signing a three-year agreement with the Commanders, Biadasz is counting $4.38 million against the cap this season. Washington must maximize this while they can. It's going up to $9.2 million and $11 million over the final two campaigns before he becomes a free agent once again.
Quan Martin - Commanders S
- 2024 salary-cap hit: $1.73 million
Ron Rivera was criticized for taking two defensive backs to start the 2023 NFL Draft when the Commanders were crying out for a talented offensive lineman. While the jury is still out on cornerback Emmanuel Forbes Jr., there's a lot to like about the way Quan Martin went about his business over the second half of his rookie campaign.
Martin was brought along gradually. The talented defensive back was deployed primarily as a slot cornerback and held his own. With the Commanders selecting Mike Sainristil to fill this spot, it's allowing the former Illinois star to move back into the safety position where he took the college football world by storm.
Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. like their secondary figures to be big, fast, and physical. Martin and veteran free-agent signing Jeremy Chinn tick those boxes, so confidence is high that this can be a productive partnership when competitive action commences.
Martin is one of many who could thrive under the new regime. Something that will make his $1.73 million salary cap hit this season look like a drop in the ocean.