Zane Gonzalez and 4 Commanders entering the last chance saloon after the bye
By Dean Jones
Clelin Ferrell - Commanders DE
Dan Quinn highlighted the importance of winning in the trenches when December and January football arrives. That throws down the gauntlet to his offensive and defensive lines with the business end of the campaign upon them.
Considering how the Washington Commanders' protection kept things relatively stable for rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels this season, the defensive line is more concerning. They have to perform cohesively to finish on a positive note and cement the team's postseason hopes.
Clelin Ferrell needs to put his physical attributes to better use. He's always had the athletic traits capable of so much more. Unfortunately, the former first-round pick out of Clemson cannot put it all together when it counts.
Ferrell's been a little more consistent against the run than getting after the quarterback. At the same time, the Commanders cannot afford any passengers at this critical stage of the campaign.
They need Ferrell to step up. Otherwise, removing him from the equation this offseason will be a simple decision for general manager Adam Peters.
Benjamin St-Juste - Commanders CB
Time is running out for Benjamin St-Juste. The veteran cornerback faces an uncertain future beyond the campaign. Another underwhelming season overall means there's a good chance the Commanders will look elsewhere for help when his contract expires next spring.
St-Juste came into the season as Washington's top cornerback option. It was a risk and came with trepidation among the fanbase. There are flashes of outstanding coverage capabilities, but it's nowhere near consistent enough.
The former third-round pick out of Minnesota's coverage grade of 50.4 from Pro Football Focus ranks 173rd out of 213 qualifying cornerbacks. St-Juste is a walking penalty waiting to happen and gives up too many big plays. That's a dangerous combination.
Joe Whitt Jr. is allocating more boundary responsibilities to rookie second-rounder Mike Sainristil at the expense of St-Juste. The Commanders are also set to welcome back Pro Bowl corner Marshon Lattimore in Week 15, who is a genuine shutdown option when firing on all cylinders.
Couple this with Noah Igbinoghene's improved performances from the slot, and it's not hard to see the mountain St-Juste is facing over the final four games.