Commanders 53-man 2024 roster projection: Offseason overhaul edition
By Dean Jones
Commanders WRs (6)
- Terry McLaurin, Jahan Dotson, Luke McCaffrey, Olamide Zaccheaus, Jamison Crowder, Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint.
The Washington Commanders didn't do much to fortify their wide receiving options this offseason. This was surprising when one considers the resources available to Adam Peters, but there's a high chance of another capable body coming into the organization depending on how things unfold over early off-season workouts.
Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson are the undisputed starters. Luke McCaffrey is someone who could potentially help as a rookie with additional refinement after becoming the No. 100 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft. Olamide Zaccheaus is a dependable possession guy but nothing more. Jamison Crowder got a new deal and should help on the rotation and as a kick returner.
It's also worth keeping a close eye on Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint. The undrafted free agent out of Georgia made a splash during Washington's rookie minicamp and boasts the skill set to potentially make the team over someone like Dyami Brown.
Commanders RBs (3)
- Brian Robinson Jr., Austin Ekeler, Chris Rodriguez Jr.
It was more a case of tweaking the Commanders' running back options rather than implementing a significant makeover this offseason. Antonio Gibson left in free agency for the New England Patriots, which wasn't surprising. He was replaced and upgraded with the signing of Austin Ekeler.
This provides the Commanders with a legitimate one-two punch capable of causing havoc to opposing defenses. If Ekeler and Brian Robinson Jr. are used effectively, there's just no telling what this combination of youth and experience can accomplish within offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury's system.
The Commanders also have Chris Rodriguez Jr. as their No. 3 option. After the former sixth-round selection flashed during his rookie campaign, he might get an increase in carries as Washington looks to become a more balanced offensive attack to make things easier for the offensive line.
Commanders QBs (2)
- Jayden Daniels, Marcus Mariota.
After exhausting assessments and speculation around the media, the Commanders settled on Jayden Daniels at No. 2 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. This brought a level of excitement to the nation's capital that hadn't been seen since Robert Griffin III. The Heisman Trophy winner out of LSU is also eager to maximize the significant opportunity that awaits in D.C.
Daniels has everything one looks for in a franchise-caliber quarterback. His mechanics are outstanding and his escapability from the pocket is extraordinary. The player cannot do it alone, but he should be able to thrive with the correct support system attached.
The Commanders readied for Daniels' arrival long before the pick was made. They moved swiftly in free agency to sign Marcus Mariota, who boasts a similar skill set and can be a dependable backup mentor for the team's new prized possession.
It would be surprising if the Commanders took three signal-callers onto their roster. At the same time, it cannot be dismissed entirely.