9 Commanders draft picks who could be gone after 2024 preseason finale
By Dean Jones
Chris Paul - Commanders OL
One of the biggest concerns to emerge from training camp centered on the Washington Commanders' offensive line depth. The starting five could be productive. If one or two were to go down with injury concerns, that's when the problems could arise.
Much will depend on how those further down the pecking order perform in Washington's last warmup game against the New England Patriots, but it wouldn't be a shock to see general manager Adam Peters acquire another addition or two depending on what options become available. Chris Paul is someone who must leave a good impression before the time comes to decide his fate.
Paul's been deployed as an interior presence and offensive tackle throughout the offseason. He's much more comfortable as a guard. Whether the former seventh-round pick out of Tulsa is up to the required standard is the biggest conundrum facing Peters and head coach Dan Quinn.
Nothing but an outstanding effort will do from Paul. He can't do anything after that, so focusing on what he can control is critical in pursuit of another chance on the 53-man roster.
Cole Turner - Commanders TE
The Commanders weren't going to sit on their hands at the tight end position this offseason. Zach Ertz was acquired to become a veteran short-term option capable of providing a security blanket for rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. Washington also spent a second-round selection on Ben Sinnott to potentially become their long-term playmaker.
Ertz and Sinnott have made their presence felt over the summer. John Bates also came in for significant praise after demonstrating improvements in the passing game to go along with his outstanding blocking. That leaves Cole Turner's fate hanging in the balance heading into final cuts.
Turner's flashes promise, but no more than that. He's got the size and physicality to be more impactful. However, this could be a numbers game for the former fifth-round selection out of Nevada when it's all said and done.
If the Commanders decide three is enough, Turner won't make it. If those in power believe taking through four tight ends would be more beneficial, then his place looks relatively safe despite the presence of undrafted free agent Colson Yankoff.