Commanders News: Ron Rivera, Eric Bieniemy, Brian Branch and Pro Bowl voting

Which Washington Commanders news stories are hitting the headlines following fresh revelations about the team's potential plans came to light?

The Washington Commanders might be on their bye week, but it hasn't stopped the news and speculation from mounting. With all hope lost for a profitable 2023 campaign, the primary focus centers on what comes next under Josh Harris' ownership group.

As expected, there's been a lot to unpack. Among the stories generating buzz include where some Commanders players stand in the early Pro Bowl voting, revelations about what exactly the players were unhappy about where Eric Bieniemy was concerned, Ron Rivera being resigned to his future beyond 2023 and Brian Branch almost being drafted by Washington.

Let's delve into each topic in more detail.

Commanders in the Pro Bowl hunt

While the Pro Bowl has lost some of its mystique and creditability, it remains a distinction players around the league can be proud of. The NFL announced the top 10 in each position category up to now from fan voting on Wednesday and some Washington Commanders players were featured despite their poor recent run of results.

Sam Howell is ranked No. 10 among all quarterbacks, which is impressive considering it's his first season as the Commanders starter. Jonathan Allen - who recently said he's thought about leaving in pursuit of winning - is ranked No. 8 in the defensive tackle category.

Strong safety Kamren Curl is No. 4 for his position. If he were to make the Pro Bowl, it would only strengthen his position when it's time for his representatives to begin negotiations on a new deal this offseason.

Antonio Gibson is listed as the No. 7 kick returner in voting. Terrell Burgess fares far better and is currently sitting at No. 1 in the special teams category thanks to his sterling efforts throughout the campaign.