Commanders sleeper could cement key roster role at 2024 training camp

Plenty of places are up for grabs over Washington Commanders training camp. Dan Quinn and his staff got to grips with their players for the first practice session on Wednesday. This is the first step in what will hopefully be a profitable few weeks for the organization heading into the 2024 campaign.

Washington's roster is almost unrecognizable thanks to an influx of free agents and draft picks acquired by general manager Adam Peters. Meshing this new-look squad into a competitive unit is the primary objective for Quinn. From the player's perspective, they only get one chance to make a good first impression.

It's safe to say rookie Jordan Magee accomplished this feat over early workouts. The Commanders took the linebacker at No. 139 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft as a potential contributor over time. However, he quickly emerged as a sleeper to potentially earn a key roster role if things continue on a similar path at camp.

Commanders LB Jordan Magee can make an impact in Year 1

John Keim of ESPN was the latest to throw his support behind Magee's chances. The respected beat writer believes that the former Temple star's development could come on quicker than most anticipate. Defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. also commended the player's maturity as a strong platform from which to build in Year 1 of his professional career.

"[Jordan] Magee impressed Washington in the spring, but his immediate future will be spent as a backup and special-teamer, playing behind free agent signees Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu. Magee's continued progression could prompt Washington to have Jamin Davis spend more time working as an edge rusher rather than linebacker -- as happened in minicamp. Magee's ability to blitz fits in well with the defensive scheme. "He doesn't carry himself like a rookie," Washington defensive coordinator Joe Whitt, Jr. said in June. "You would not know that with the way he handles himself, the way he absorbs information. He doesn't have a lot of mistakes.""

- John Keim, ESPN

Asking Magee to become a full-time starter so early into his NFL journey is asking for trouble. Fortunately, the Commanders won't be tasking him with such responsibilities after signing Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu in free agency.

Learning from two prolific veterans is an opportunity Magee cannot waste. If he takes on their guidance, receives the correct integration, and displays the same work ethic, there's every chance he can become the primary backup. He might even get reps in the lineup quickly depending on the situation and schematic alignment.

It's early days, but the Commanders could have a steal on their hands with the fifth-round selection. Watching his progress over camp will provide clearer insight into what he's capable of. He's going under the radar compared to most - including from this Washington draft class. Magee is using this as extra motivation in pursuit of carving out a surprising role for himself.

The Commanders' linebacking room has gone from a weakness to one of real strength. If Magee can emerge from his sleeper status and play his part, the better their chances will be.

Things can change quickly in the NFL, but cannot be anything other than impressed by the way Magee's applied himself so far. Long may it continue.