Commanders News: Chase Young, Emmanuel Forbes, Eric Bieniemy and Phidarian Mathis
By Dean Jones
Commanders DT gets major seal of approval
To say things didn't go according to plan for Phidarian Mathis as a rookie would e an understatement. The imposing defensive tackle's season ended in Week 1 against the Jacksonville Jaguars, which was a body blow for a player who'd immediately carved out a key rotational role for himself.
It's been a long road to recovery for Mathis. But all signs point to the 2022 second-round selection becoming a factor this time around despite the Washington Commanders tying down Daron Payne to a long-term extension.
When asked about Mathis' progress after Wednesday's practice, Jonathan Allen stated via Mark Inabinett of Al.com that it's all systems go. The Pro Bowler was also quick to magnify how tough it can be for young guys who suffer early setbacks in their professional careers.
"He looks good. I feel for him. I broke my foot my rookie year, so I know what it’s like to miss most of the season, so he’s just excited to get back and be with the guys. You know, when you get hurt as a young guy, the biggest thing you realize is you just miss doing the little stuff. You miss stretching with the team. You miss working out with the team. All the things that a lot of guys sometimes complain about, you miss it when it’s not there, so he’s hungry and he’s ready to work, and he’s going to be great for us this year."
- Jonathan Allen via Al.com
Hopefully, this will be the end of Mathis' complications on the health front. There is enough talent to suggest he can emerge as a decent third option when Payne or Allen need rest or get hurt, but there's no telling for sure until the Commanders get prominent reps into him after so long away from the gridiron.