Washington Commanders: Roster Cuts Loom as Regular Season Approaches
The excitement is building as the NFL regular season draws near, and for teams like the Washington Commanders, the final days of preseason mean tough roster decisions are on the horizon. With rosters needing to be trimmed to 53 players, teams are evaluating each player’s contribution and potential. Bleacher Report’s David Kenyon highlighted one player he believes the Commanders should release: quarterback Jeff Driskel. Kenyon argues that with the team’s two-deep quarterback rotation set (Jayden Daniels as starter and Marcus Mariota as backup), Washington doesn’t require a third quarterback on the active roster. This move could allow the Commanders to focus on developing younger players or bolstering other positions.
Key Takeaways:
- The Washington Commanders need to trim their roster to 53 players ahead of the regular season.
- Bleacher Report’s David Kenyon suggests releasing quarterback Jeff Driskel.
- Kenyon believes the Commanders don’t need a third quarterback on the active roster after setting their two-deep rotation (Jayden Daniels and Marcus Mariota).
- The Commanders might explore keeping a younger quarterback like Sam Hartman on the practice squad.
- Washington’s focus on creating a new-look offense under new head coach Dan Quinn and offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury will likely impact roster decisions.
The Need for a Third Quarterback: A Debate
Kenyon argues that the NFL’s "emergency third quarterback rule" allows teams to bypass the need for a third quarterback on the active roster. This rule enables teams to call up a player from the practice squad if both starting and backup quarterbacks are injured. While this rule seems logical, it raises a crucial question: Is a third quarterback truly unnecessary?
While the Commanders might feel confident with Daniels and Mariota leading the offense, having a third quarterback on the active roster provides valuable insurance. Injuries can happen, and having a player ready to step onto the field in case of emergency can make a difference. Additionally, the third quarterback can serve as a key practice player, pushing the starters by simulating opposing defenses. This competition can sharpen the team’s overall preparedness.
The Case for Keeping Driskel
While Kenyon advocates for Driskel’s departure, his experience and familiarity with the Commanders’ system are significant assets. Driskel has been with the team for two seasons and is well-versed in their offensive scheme. This knowledge makes him a valuable player for the team, even if his role is primarily that of a backup. Driskel’s experience can provide important mentorship to younger quarterbacks like Hartman, who might benefit from learning from a seasoned player.
A Focus on the Future
The Commanders are in a rebuilding phase, and their roster decisions will reflect their focus on the future. Keeping Hartman on the practice squad ensures the young quarterback continues to develop, potentially transitioning into a more prominent role in the years to come. This strategic move displays a long-term approach to building a winning team.
Washington’s New Offense: A Glimpse of the Future
The arrival of Quinn and Kingsbury has injected a new energy into the Commanders, and their impact is already being felt on the offensive side of the ball. This new era promises a dynamic and perhaps surprising approach to the game. While the team has been focused on the preseason, the roster cuts will mark the official transition to the regular season. Expect the Commanders to showcase their new offensive identity when they take the field for their first regular-season game.
The Final Word
The Washington Commanders’ roster decisions will be crucial as they head into the regular season. While Kenyon’s suggestion to release Driskel might seem logical on paper, the value of experienced players like Driskel shouldn’t be overlooked. Ultimately, the team will need to strike a balance between developing younger players and securing veteran talent for potential future success. As the regular season kicks off, the Commanders’ choices will determine their trajectory for the remainder of the year. Fans will be eager to see how the team utilizes their new-look offense and if their roster decisions pave the way for a promising future.
