Commanders initial 53-man roster prediction after 2023 preseason finale

Commanders safeties (4)

• Kamren Curl, Darrick Forrest, Jeremy Reaves, Percy Butler.

Four safeties might not seem like much. However, it's also worth remembering that the Washington Commanders could easily deploy Quan Martin on the backend - a position where he starred at Illinois - should they wish.

Kamren Curl needs to be paid promptly after emerging as an indispensable member of the team's plans. Darrick Forrest is a more than able safety partner and big things are also expected of Percy Butler following an outstanding preparation period.

The final selection is Jeremy Reaves, who'll be aiming for more defensive involvement in addition to continuing his All-Pro production on special teams for good measure.

Commanders special teams (3)

• Joey Slye (K), Tress Way (P), Camaron Cheeseman (LS).

This is the simplest position group to figure out. There was a time earlier this offseason when Joey Slye's job looked in jeopardy after the Commanders signed kicker Michael Badgley, but he responded to the challenge well and comfortably beat out his former teammate.

Tress Way remains one of the best punters in the business and it would be a huge shock if things didn't continue in this manner throughout the upcoming campaign. Although Camaron Cheeseman endured a rough outing in Preseason Week 2, the long snapper has enough good form to suggest this was a blip rather than anything serious.

Whether this ends up being the Commanders' roster or not remains to be seen. But it does look like a squad capable of surprising a few who've already written off their chances of progression.