Unheralded Commanders star touted as dark-horse Pro Bowl candidate in 2024

It's been an incredible journey for the Washington Commanders this season. They're way ahead of schedule heading into the business end of the campaign. This stems from everyone buying into Dan Quinn's culture shift and a plethora of players far exceeding expectations.

Nobody epitomizes this more than Dante Fowler Jr. The edge rusher is a long-term associate of Quinn's from their time together on the Dallas Cowboys and Atlanta Falcons. There's a genuine trust between the two. The coach knows that he can get the job done when called upon, which has been evident throughout a memorable campaign to date.

Fowler might not have lived up to the heights expected of a top-five draft selection. However, he's been a revelation in Washington.

The former Florida standout leads the team in sacks. He's generating pressure consistently and also setting the edge well on running plays without being entirely perfect. Considering how overlooked this signing was compared to others during Adam Peters' drastic roster revamp, his outstanding performance levels are a breath of fresh air.

The Commanders aren't the finished article just yet. They also know an opportunity knocks thanks to the dependability of veteran pieces like Fowler. Something that could see the player achieve surprising individual accolades when the campaign concludes.

Commanders OLB Dante Fowler Jr. named potential Pro Bowl sleeper

This was a topic discussed by Kevin Patra from NFL.com. He listed Fowler among his sleeper picks to make the Pro Bowl in 2024, highlighting his high impact from rotational reps as a big reason why the player should be considered.

"[Dante] Fowler followed Dan Quinn from Dallas to Washington, and boy, did it pay off for all parties. Fowler's nose has been all over the pigskin. He hasn't seen the massive amount of snaps that others with impressive counting stats get either (167 pass rush snaps), but he has made the most of them. Quinn is putting the veteran in a spot to do damage, and Fowler is paying off with big plays. The former No. 3 overall pick didn't live up to the lofty draft status early in his career and eventually became a nomad (on his fifth club). However, he is putting together a potential career year in the Commanders' resurgence."

- Kevin Patra, NFL.com

This would have been beyond Fowler's wildest dreams before the season. Considering his encouraging form and the Commanders becoming one of the league's surprise packages, it's quickly emerged into a bold yet attainable goal.

Regardless of whether Fowler makes the Pro Bowl or not, he's done his chances of an extended stay beyond the campaign a tremendous amount of good. There's still plenty of good football left in the player at 30 years old. Giving him a one or two-year extension seems realistic if the same form continues down the stretch.

The Commanders' edge rushing room could still use an explosive long-term piece from the college ranks next spring. Until then, those in power can relax safe in the knowledge Fowler will produce the goods if put in profitable situations by the coaching staff.

Fowler is one of the offseason's best signings. Not many had that on their bingo card, which is a testament to his work ethic and ability to seize moments when they arrive.

Long may it continue.

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