Commanders News: Eric Bieniemy, Terry McLaurin, Rachad Wildgoose and QB battle
By Dean Jones
Commanders CB ranked among NFL's best slot options
The Washington Commanders made strengthening their secondary a top priority during the 2023 NFL Draft. Those in power spent the No. 16 overall selection on explosive cornerback Emmanuel Forbes and as a shock to many, took versatile defensive back Quan Martin in Round No. 2.
This was no doubt needed after some lackluster performances in 2022. Increased competition for places is always a good thing, but the Commanders might just have an ace up their sleeve in the form of Rachad Wildgoose.
Although it was a relatively small sample size, Wildgoose came in at No. 2 league-wide in Braxton Howard from Pro Football Focus' list of most productive slot performers last season. Something that could provide the former Wisconsin standout with the confidence boost needed to make his presence felt on the 53-man roster.
"The former sixth-round selection has played sparingly to this point in his young NFL career. Last season, he saw his most work, manning the slot role at times for the Commanders. Though he only started in three games, Wildgoose showed some flashes. He had a two-week stretch against Tennessee and Chicago where he posted back-to-back 79.9 and 77.7 coverage grades. In those outings, [Rachad] Wildgoose was targeted three times and allowed just one catch for 10 yards while breaking up a pass. On just 196 total snaps, Wildgoose allowed under 100 yards and zero touchdowns in his first season with actual playing time."
- Braxton Howard, Pro Football Focus
Generating reps might be difficult for Wildgoose considering the more established options in front of him. However, there is enough to suggest a roster spot is well within his capabilities at the very least with training camp on the immediate horizon.