Commanders News: Josh Harris, Jahan Dotson, deserving fans and Quan Martin
By Dean Jones
Commanders DB Quan Martin makes All-Rookie team
Even though selecting Quan Martin was a strange move to many outside of the Washington Commanders, it had nothing to do with the talent he brings to the table. The versatile defensive back was part of Illinois' prolific secondary in 2022, providing a fierce presence on the backend that also assisted greatly as a nickel cornerback when the situation dictated.
The Commanders see something in Martin and there is every chance he could be an immediate contributor providing everything goes well throughout Washington's upcoming training camp. This adds another injection of energy alongside first-rounder Emmanuel Forbes and opens things up schematically for defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio ahead of a critical 2023 campaign.
Martin received a confidence boost recently when Chad Reuter of NFL.com placed him on his All-Rookie Team. Unfortunately for Forbes, he was overlooked in favor of Christian Gonzalez and Tariq Stevenson on the outside.
[Quan] Martin slides into the Commanders' nickel spot, challenging slot receivers with his quick feet and tenacity. He can be an effective blitzer, as well, and will handle his run responsibilities from the get-go.
Taking two defensive backs to begin the draft was a huge call, especially considering how many top-tier interior offensive linemen were available at No. 47 overall. But if Martin and Forbes make their presences felt, this defense will be incredibly difficult to stop.