Commanders News: Josh Harris, Ron Rivera, Khaleke Hudson and skill positions
By Dean Jones
Khaleke Hudson named Commanders' standout
It's been fascinating to see certain individuals coming to the fore throughout early workouts. There is a lot at stake for the Washington Commanders next season and with jobs potentially on the line, any weak links across the depth chart could come with grave ramifications.
One of the most impressive performers throughout the offseason activities so far is Khaleke Hudson. The linebacker drew praise from defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio for kicking on after impressing in Week 18 against the Dallas Cowboys, with John Keim of ESPN also naming the former fifth-round selection out of Michigan as his surprising standout from the summer so far.
"[Khaleke] Hudson, a backup/special-teamer in his first three seasons, worked with the starters during the spring in part because Jamin Davis was recovering from offseason knee surgery and free agent signee Cody Barton was working with the backups as he learned the defense. Hudson impressed the coaches, however, building on a successful start in the regular-season finale. He played fast this spring -- as he did in the finale against Dallas. While Washington entered the offseason wanting to improve its linebacker depth, Hudson's one-game performance, as well as this spring, put that quest on hold."
- John Keim, ESPN
Hudson has athletic traits that could potentially make a difference in the rotation. The Commanders are also light of legitimate options at the defensive second level looking at their current depth options.
If he continues making a splash when training camp arrives, then the Commanders can feel confident about throwing him in at the deep end right out of the gate in 2023.