Commanders News: Chase Young, Montez Sweat, likely scenario and LB core ranked
By Dean Jones
Which Washington Commanders news stories are making headlines as the organization moves one day closer to their all-important training camp next month?
Good morning and a very happy Friday to you all. Among the Washington Commanders' news stories causing waves recently include what the team needs from Chase Young, the linebacking corps ranked, Montez Sweat poised to dominate, and a likely scenario for the upcoming 2023 season.
Let's delve into each topic in more detail.
Commanders LB core ranked
After an offseason where the Commanders didn't identify strengthening their linebacking corps as a matter of urgency once again, questions remain about whether this position group could become a weak link in 2023. Something that would become glaringly obvious on a defense that could be among the league's best if everything comes together.
This is further reflected by Dalton Wasserman from Pro Football Focus, who placed Washington's linebackers at No. 25 in his preseason power rankings. The writer also brought to light the critical campaign awaiting Jamin Davis, who could become a real difference-maker with additional refinement.
"The Commanders are another team waiting for a former first-round pick to break out. Jamin Davis struggled during his rookie season in 2021 but trended upward to a 62.9 overall grade last season. He improved as the year progressed and could be an X-factor for a potentially excellent defense. Ex-Seahawk Cody Barton will likely accompany Davis in a starting role. Barton is serviceable at times but has graded in the mid-to-high 50s in all four seasons of his career. This unit’s success will almost solely depend on Davis' progress."
- Dalton Wasserman, Pro Football Focus
Expect to see a lot of two-linebacker sets from Jack Del Rio next season - especially given the additions made to the Commanders' secondary early in the 2023 NFL Draft. If Davis and his teammates at the second level live up to their end of the bargain, it's all systems go.