Commanders 53-man 2024 roster projection: Pre-training camp edition
By Dean Jones
Commanders defensive line (9)
- Jonathan Allen, Daron Payne, Dorance Armstrong Jr., Clelin Ferrell, Dante Fowler Jr., Johnny Newton, Phidarian Mathis, K.J. Henry, Efe Obada
Much has been made about the Washington Commanders' edge rushing options heading into the season. Those in power acquired three veterans in free agency to fill the void left by Montez Sweat and Chase Young. Whether they've done enough to raise performance levels is another matter.
Dorance Armstrong Jr. looks like a player of promise after thriving under Dan Quinn over the last two seasons. Clelin Ferrell and Dante Fowler Jr. should help, but neither comes with exceptional production to speak of. Hopes are high K.J. Henry can develop further after flashing as a rookie. Efe Obada's previous experience and versatility are preferred over seventh-round pick Javontae Jean-Baptiste.
Washington's defensive line strength is on the interior. Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne are the starting tandem and should bounce back under improved coaching. Johnny Newton is ready to be unleashed as he edges closer to a return from injury. Phidarian Mathis' potential gives him the tentative edge over John Ridgeway III, although this will be determined by how they perform over camp drills and the preseason.
Players like Jean-Baptiste, Andre Jones Jr., and Ridgeway are candidates for the practice squad if they clear waivers in this scenario.
Commanders offensive line (9)
- Andrew Wylie, Sam Cosmi, Tyler Biadasz, Nick Allegretti, Brandon Coleman, Cornelius Lucas, Trent Scott, Michael Deiter, Ricky Stromberg
Everything looks positive for the Commanders in 2024. However, this could disintegrate in the blink of an eye if the offensive line doesn't meet its end of the bargain.
This group was overwhelmed once again last season. Eric Bieniemy placed too much pressure on their shoulders with a pass-happy scheme that saw Sam Howell become the league's most-sacked quarterback. The Commanders brought in several fresh faces to potentially improve matters this offseason.
Tyler Biadasz is an upgrade at the center spot. Nick Allegretti could excel after starring for the Kansas City Chiefs deep into the postseason. Sam Cosmi is a stud at right guard, so the production on the interior could be pleasing if everyone stays clear of injuries.
It's more concerning on the edges. Andrew Wylie gets another shot on the right-hand side despite underperforming in 2023. Cornelius Lucas, Trent Scott, and rookie third-rounder Brandon Coleman will battle for the starting left tackle position. In an ideal world, the first-year pro will transition well and become the team's long-term blindside option.
Michael Deiter is slotted as the backup center and should make the team. It's too early to give up on Ricky Stromberg, which leaves players such as Braeden Daniels, Chris Paul, and Mason Brooks on the outside looking in.
Commanders tight ends (3)
- Zach Ertz, Ben Sinnott, Armani Rogers
There's legitimate hope surrounding the tight-end group heading into the 2024 season. The Commanders want this unit to contribute significantly to Kliff Kingsbury's schematic concepts. There's a nice blend of youth and experience despite Washington making Logan Thomas a salary-cap casualty earlier this offseason.
Zach Ertz knows Kingsbury well from their successful time together with the Arizona Cardinals. He's approaching the end of his career, but there looks to be something left in the tank after the Pro Bowler caught the eye consistently over early off-season workouts.
The Commanders believe Ben Sinnott can become the total package and a prolific long-term option. He does everything well - including blocking either in-line or on the move. This could lead Washington to someone with the athletic measurables of Armani Rogers over John Bates, although there's just no telling for sure.
This will be a fascinating dynamic to watch over camp. One could dismiss the possibility of Bates or Cole Turner making the team. It's also worth keeping an eye on undrafted free agent Colston Yankoff's progress.