7 Commanders on the roster bubble after 2024 offseason overhaul
By Dean Jones
Braeden Daniels - Commanders OL
Adam Peters wanted to fortify the offensive line this offseason. Some improved starters came in via free agency. The Washington Commanders also spent a third-round selection on Brandon Coleman after failing in their attempts to get back into the first round for a premium offensive tackle.
This should help stabilize things if everything comes together quickly under Kliff Kingsbury and his offensive staff. This puts Braeden Daniels firmly under the microscope as he embarks on his second offseason in the pros.
A few eyebrows were raised when the Commanders took Daniels in the fourth round last spring. He struggled to meet even modest expectations throughout camp before going to season-ending injured reserve. This spared him the embarrassment of failing to make the team, but it did nothing to inspire confidence in his long-term aspirations.
Daniels has his work cut out, there's no getting away from that. If the Commanders add another veteran edge presence at some stage before the 2024 campaign, that might be enough to seal his unwanted fate.
Joshua Pryor - Commanders DE
Finding edge rushing help was one of the Washington Commanders' biggest priorities when the offseason began. Trading the starting defensive end tandem of Chase Young and Montez Sweat dictated as much, but things look more promising right now if the new faces all contribute in some capacity.
Dorance Armstrong, Dante Fowler Jr., and Clelin Ferrell provide veteran stability that was sorely lacking after Sweat and Young departed for greener pastures. Hopes remain high that K.J. Henry can build on a promising rookie campaign to make a bigger impact in 2024, especially considering the enhanced coaching he'll benefit from throughout the upcoming preparation period.
Looking at the depth chart as it stands, Joshua Pryor seems to be facing a significant fight for involvement. While there could be some merit to keeping him on the practice squad if he doesn't do enough to make the team, he'll have grander ambitions after featuring on 84 percent of special teams snaps when active last season.
Pryor will get a legitimate shot to prove his worth. Whether he's got enough in his locker to force his way into Dan Quinn's plans is debatable.