The Washington Commanders are in no position to wait around. General manager Adam Peters decided changes were needed in the cornerback room, reportedly signing veteran Rasul Douglas to a one-year deal worth up to $3.8 million.
That will help their depth in a position of need. Unfortunately, it may also have abruptly ended a feel-good summer story before it begins.
The Commanders got a good look at those lower down the depth chart at mandatory minicamp. Undrafted rookie Fred Davis II was among them, and the athletic defensive back caught the eye enough to warrant attention when things get more intense in the summer.
Commanders signing Rasul Douglas could end Fred Davis II's feel-good story
Davis was reportedly flying around the field, making some impressive plays. He got his foot in the door, but it remained a tall order to force his way into the team's plans. The Commanders' decision to sign Douglas only makes it more difficult.
Mike Sainristil, Trey Amos, Amik Robertson, and now Douglas are roster locks. That leaves maybe one or two positions for the rest, and Ahkello Witherspoon may be in the driver's seat despite an indifferent start to life in Washington. These numbers would decrease further if the Commanders permanently move Quan Martin into the nickel, which they have been experimenting with throughout the offseason.
That doesn't bode well for Davis' chances of making the squad. But realistically, that was never a viable possibility despite his impressive performances.
If Davis, the son of former Washington tight end Fred Davis, can make the practice squad, that would be a considerable achievement. The Commanders will get a broader indication of what he can bring to the table in the preseason, but sticking around to continue his development in some capacity is certainly feasible.
Even if that's not on the initial 53-man roster.
The Commanders have too much at stake in 2026 to rely on unknown quantities. Peters has moved away from focusing heavily on aging veterans this offseason, but aside from his rookie class, all have prominent experience in the pros. They are a little younger and have longer-term upside, but that doesn't make things easier for anyone else.
Davis will focus on what he can control. He'll take things one day at a time, focusing on getting better. But with the Commanders needing to make room for Douglas on their 90-man roster, it'll be an anxious wait to see if he avoids the chop beforehand.
It's the unfortunate nature of the business. Davis will roll with the punches, but his situation is now precarious after generating so much optimism.
Things change quickly in the NFL. Davis might find that out the hard way.
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