What are the biggest strengths surrounding the Washington Commanders after one of the more dramatic offseason periods in franchise history?
The Washington Commanders have been working with limited resources with the ownership in flux this offseason. So those in power deserve credit for making the most of what was available in the hope of better fortunes in 2023.
In fairness to the Commanders, they weren't that far away last season. If Sam Howell can become a consistent quarterback and other problem position groups also make strides, then a return to the playoffs is a realistic goal next time around.
Preparations are gathering pace ahead of training camp which will also include joint practices with the Baltimore Ravens. We are still relatively early in the process, but certain areas of potential dominance are pretty obvious from the outside looking in.
With that being said, we ranked the three biggest Commanders' strengths after a 2023 offseason that will live long in the memory.
No. 3: Commanders safety group
The Washington Commanders have one of the best young safety tandems anywhere in the league to depend upon next season. Kamren Curl and Darrick Forrest will look to enhance their ever-growing reputations in 2023 and the team also has some decent options below them on the depth chart for good measure.
Percy Butler looks set for more involvement in Year 2. All-Pro special teams ace Jeremy Reaves could be seeking additional reps on the defensive rotation after signing his tender, and the Commanders spent their second-round selection on Quan Martin - a versatile defensive back that can operate on the backend or as a nickel cornerback if needed.
This is almost an embarrassment of riches for defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio. Considering the lack of talent at linebacker, expect to see multiple safety alignments depending on the situation.
No. 2: Commanders WR group
Even though the Washington Commanders did little to bolster their wide receiver options throughout the offseason, one notable addition could propel this gifted unit to heights not seen before. That is, of course, the arrival of Eric Bieniemy.
The former Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator made his big switch to the nation's capital to get full control of the scheme. Bieniemy also felt there was enough talent at the skill positions to ensure this big gamble pays off with a future head coaching gig down the line.
Terry McLaurin, Curtis Samuel, and Jahan Dotson represent a dynamic starting trio capable of wreaking havoc on any given down. Their numbers were decent last season despite almost no consistent quarterback production, so there's just no telling what can be accomplished if Sam Howell meets his end of the bargain.
The signal-caller's previous connection to Dyami Brown in college could mean a huge upturn in targets for the one-time North Carolina standout. He's a little more imposing physically than the rest, which is something that won't go unnoticed by Bieniemy.
Marcus Kemp and Dax Milne will fancy their chances and undrafted free agent Kazmeir Allen has drawn plenty of praise this offseason. So there is also plenty of strength in depth in the event injury strikes at some stage.
No. 1: Commanders DL group
Again, this is down to retention rather than addition. But the Washington Commanders defensive line could be on course for pure dominance in 2023 providing there are no complications on the health front.
That statement is largely focused on Chase Young. The defensive end's featured just 12 times over the last two years, so this is a make-or-break campaign upcoming for the player in relation to his long-term aspirations in Washington.
Keeping around Daron Payne means the Commanders now have a significant amount tied up in their defensive tackle tandem. Jonathan Allen remains a model of consistency, so this pair could be the league's best with any further improvements next season.
Montez Sweat should be highly motivated in a contract year, which is another positive even though it might provide some financial complications long-term. Efe Obada is back and the Commanders also picked up a development pass-rusher in the form of K.J. Henry, who has decent athletic upside.
Couple this with the return to health of interior lineman Phidarian Mathis, and stopping the Commanders' defensive front is going to be a tough proposition for even the more elite offensive lines on Washington's schedule in 2023.