Stay or go? Predicting the future of 2024 Commanders free agents at midseason
By Dean Jones
Antonio Gibson - Commanders RB
Antonio Gibson looked at one stage as if he could become the Washington Commanders' long-term starting running back. But he's been surpassed by Brian Robinson Jr. since then, restricted to pass-catching duties out of the backfield more often than not.
Verdict: Departure
Gibson's also had some ball security issues, which isn't ideal. Teams are reluctant to pay players at the position these days, so expect the Commanders to look at adding another explosive weapon via the draft rather than give the former Memphis standout the money he's looking for.
David Mayo - Commanders LB
David Mayo is a trusted player of Ron Rivera's from their time together on the Carolina Panthers. He's a solid special teamer, but asking him to accumulate any meaningful reps on the defensive rotation long-term seems to be a stretch.
Verdict: Departure
With Rivera's job status hanging in the balance, the chances of Mayo getting another go-around under a different coaching regime are remote. If the current figurehead stays - which does appear unlikely - then a new deal won't be so far-fetched.
Tyler Larsen - Commanders C
The offensive line was terrible over the first few weeks of the campaign. However, there now appears to be some light at the end of the tunnel thanks in no small part to the performances of Tyler Larsen.
Verdict: Extension
Larsen's improved communication and provided Washington's protection with an added sense of aggressiveness. There's a lot of football left, but similar production over their remaining games should see another new deal come his way as a result.
Khaleke Hudson - Commanders LB
This is a curious case. It looked for all the smart money as if Khaleke Hudson was in line for a substantial upturn in reps this season, but they didn't arrive until recently as the linebacker played second-fiddle to the likes of Jamin Davis and Cody Barton.
Verdict: Extension
Hudson's got some nice athletic intangibles to build upon. Getting more playing time would help, but his assistance on special teams alone should be enough to get a short-term extension at the very least.