Hey Commanders fans! Let's dive deep into the Washington Commanders depth chart, analyzing the roster and making some projections for the upcoming season. Understanding the depth chart is crucial for every fan, as it gives us insights into the team's strengths, weaknesses, and potential breakout players. So, buckle up as we explore each position group and what to expect from the Commanders this year.

Quarterbacks: Sam Howell Era Begins?

The quarterback position is arguably the most crucial in football, and the Commanders have been searching for stability here for years. With the departure of previous starters, all eyes are on Sam Howell. Howell, a fifth-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, showed flashes of potential in his limited action last season. The team seems committed to giving him a real shot to prove he can be the franchise quarterback.

Sam Howell's strengths include his arm talent, mobility, and ability to make plays outside the pocket. However, he's still relatively inexperienced, and decision-making will be key to his success. The coaching staff will need to provide him with a solid offensive scheme and surround him with reliable weapons.

Behind Howell, the Commanders have veteran Jacoby Brissett. Brissett brings a wealth of experience and can serve as a valuable mentor to Howell. He's a capable backup who can step in and manage the game effectively if needed. The Commanders also have Jake Fromm on the roster, providing additional depth and competition during training camp.

• Projected Depth Chart:
  1. Sam Howell
  2. Jacoby Brissett
  3. Jake Fromm

The Commanders' success this season hinges significantly on Howell's development. If he can progress quickly and become a reliable starter, the team's outlook improves dramatically. Brissett's presence provides a safety net, but the ultimate goal is for Howell to establish himself as the long-term answer at quarterback. The coaching staff will need to focus on refining his technique, improving his decision-making, and building his confidence throughout the season. Additionally, the performance of the offensive line in protecting Howell will be critical to his success. A clean pocket will allow him to make better reads and deliver accurate passes. The Commanders have invested in bolstering the offensive line, and their performance will be closely tied to Howell's progress.

Running Backs: A Dynamic Duo?

The Commanders' running back situation looks promising, with a blend of talent and experience. Brian Robinson Jr. emerged as a key contributor last season, displaying toughness, power, and the ability to pick up tough yards. His inspiring comeback from a gunshot wound was one of the season's feel-good stories, and he's poised to build on that momentum.

Alongside Robinson, the Commanders have Antonio Gibson, a dynamic playmaker with exceptional receiving skills. Gibson's versatility makes him a valuable asset in the passing game, and he can also contribute as a runner. The coaching staff will likely look to utilize both Robinson and Gibson in various ways, creating a potent one-two punch in the backfield.

Behind Robinson and Gibson, the Commanders have Chris Rodriguez Jr., a rookie who brings additional depth and potential. Rodriguez is a physical runner with a nose for the end zone, and he could carve out a role as a short-yardage specialist. The team also has Jonathan Williams and Myles Gaskin providing further depth and competition.

• Projected Depth Chart:
  1. Brian Robinson Jr.
  2. Antonio Gibson
  3. Chris Rodriguez Jr.
  4. Jonathan Williams
  5. Myles Gaskin

The Commanders' running game has the potential to be a major strength this season. Robinson's power and Gibson's versatility complement each other perfectly, giving the offense multiple dimensions. The offensive line will play a crucial role in creating running lanes and allowing these backs to maximize their potential. Furthermore, the coaching staff's play-calling will be essential in effectively utilizing both Robinson and Gibson. Mixing up the run and pass, and keeping defenses guessing, will be key to a successful rushing attack. The Commanders will aim to establish a consistent running game to take pressure off the quarterback and control the clock, thus helping to sustain drives and wear down opposing defenses. The presence of a reliable running game can also open up opportunities in the passing game, creating favorable matchups and play-action opportunities. With a strong running game, the Commanders can control the tempo of the game and keep the opposing offense off the field.

Wide Receivers: McLaurin Leads the Way

The wide receiver corps is led by the talented Terry McLaurin, who has consistently been one of the league's most underrated players. McLaurin is a true number-one receiver with exceptional route-running skills, reliable hands, and the ability to make contested catches. He's the focal point of the Commanders' passing game and will continue to be a primary target for Sam Howell.

Alongside McLaurin, the Commanders have Jahan Dotson, a speedy and explosive receiver who showed promise as a rookie. Dotson's ability to stretch the field and make big plays makes him a valuable complement to McLaurin. The team hopes he can take a step forward in his second season and become an even more consistent contributor.

The Commanders also added veteran Curtis Samuel, who brings a different dimension to the receiving corps. Samuel is a versatile player who can line up in the slot, on the outside, or even in the backfield. His ability to create mismatches and make plays after the catch makes him a valuable weapon for the offense. Furthermore, the team has players like Dyami Brown, Mitchell Tinsley, and Dax Milne providing additional depth and competition.

• Projected Depth Chart:
  1. Terry McLaurin
  2. Jahan Dotson
  3. Curtis Samuel
  4. Dyami Brown
  5. Mitchell Tinsley
  6. Dax Milne

The Commanders' passing game hinges on the success of their wide receivers. McLaurin's presence provides a reliable target, and the development of Dotson and Samuel will be crucial in creating a more dynamic and explosive passing attack. The coaching staff will need to design creative plays that utilize the strengths of each receiver and create opportunities for them to make plays. Moreover, Sam Howell's ability to build chemistry with his receivers and deliver accurate passes will be critical to the success of the passing game. The Commanders will look to create a balanced offensive attack, utilizing both the run and the pass, to keep defenses guessing and exploit weaknesses. By establishing a strong passing game, the Commanders can stretch the field and create opportunities for big plays. The receivers' ability to get open and make contested catches will be essential in moving the chains and scoring touchdowns.

Tight Ends: Logan Thomas's Role

The tight end position is led by Logan Thomas, a veteran who has been a reliable target for the Commanders. Thomas is a solid all-around tight end who can contribute as a receiver and a blocker. However, he's coming off an injury, and his health will be a key factor in his effectiveness this season.

Behind Thomas, the Commanders have John Bates, a young tight end who has shown potential as a blocker and receiver. Bates could see an increased role this season, especially if Thomas is limited by injury. The team also has Cole Turner and Armani Rogers providing additional depth at the position.

• Projected Depth Chart:
  1. Logan Thomas
  2. John Bates
  3. Cole Turner
  4. Armani Rogers

The tight end position will be critical for providing Sam Howell with reliable targets in the short and intermediate passing game. Thomas's health will be crucial to his effectiveness, and the development of Bates and Turner will be important for adding depth and versatility to the position. The coaching staff will need to find ways to utilize the tight ends effectively in the passing game and the running game. Their ability to block effectively will be essential in creating running lanes and protecting Howell. The tight ends' ability to get open and make catches in traffic will be crucial in moving the chains and scoring touchdowns. By utilizing the tight ends effectively, the Commanders can add another dimension to their offense and keep defenses guessing.

Offensive Line: Protecting Howell

The offensive line is crucial for protecting Sam Howell and establishing a running game. The Commanders have invested in upgrading the offensive line, and its performance will be critical to the success of the offense. The line is anchored by veterans like Charles Leno Jr. and Nick Gates, who bring experience and stability to the unit.

Andrew Wylie was brought in to solidify the right tackle position, while Sam Cosmi is expected to continue his development at guard. The Commanders also have young players like Ricky Stromberg and Chris Paul providing depth and competition. A strong and cohesive offensive line is essential for providing Howell with a clean pocket to make reads and deliver accurate passes. It also opens up running lanes for the running backs, allowing the offense to control the tempo of the game.

• Projected Depth Chart (Left to Right):
  • LT: Charles Leno Jr.
  • LG: Saahdiq Charles
  • C: Nick Gates
  • RG: Sam Cosmi
  • RT: Andrew Wylie

The offensive line's ability to protect Howell and create running lanes will be paramount to the Commanders' offensive success. The coaching staff will need to work closely with the line to develop cohesion and ensure that they are executing their assignments effectively. The performance of the offensive line will have a direct impact on the team's ability to score points and control the game. A strong and reliable offensive line can give the Commanders a significant advantage over their opponents. The team has invested in upgrading the offensive line, and their performance will be closely watched throughout the season.

Defensive Line: A Force to be Reckoned With

The Commanders' defensive line is arguably the team's greatest strength, boasting a wealth of talent and depth. Led by Jonathan Allen, Daron Payne, Montez Sweat, and Chase Young, the defensive line has the potential to be one of the league's most dominant units. Allen and Payne are disruptive interior linemen who excel at stopping the run and generating pressure on the quarterback. Sweat and Young are dynamic edge rushers with the ability to wreak havoc on opposing offenses.

The Commanders also have talented backups like Efe Obada, Casey Toohill, and James Smith-Williams providing additional depth and pass-rushing ability. The defensive line's ability to generate pressure on the quarterback and disrupt the running game is critical to the success of the entire defense. Their performance can create turnovers, force opposing offenses into unfavorable situations, and give the Commanders a significant advantage.

• Projected Depth Chart:
  • DE: Montez Sweat, Efe Obada
  • DT: Jonathan Allen, Phidarian Mathis
  • DT: Daron Payne, John Ridgeway
  • DE: Chase Young, James Smith-Williams

The defensive line's ability to dominate opposing offenses will be critical to the Commanders' success. The coaching staff will need to find ways to maximize the potential of this talented unit and ensure that they are playing with discipline and intensity. The defensive line's performance can set the tone for the entire team and give the Commanders a chance to win every game. The team has invested heavily in the defensive line, and their performance will be closely watched throughout the season.

Linebackers: Building a Solid Core

The linebacker corps is an area where the Commanders are looking to improve. Cody Barton and Jamin Davis are expected to be the starters, and their performance will be crucial to the success of the defense. Barton is a veteran who brings experience and leadership to the unit. Davis is a young player with tremendous potential, and the team hopes he can take a step forward this season.

The Commanders also have David Mayo, Khaleke Hudson, and Jabril Cox providing additional depth and competition. The linebacker's ability to stop the run, cover tight ends, and blitz the quarterback is essential to the success of the defense. Their performance can have a significant impact on the team's ability to limit opposing offenses and create turnovers.

• Projected Depth Chart:
  • LB: Cody Barton
  • LB: Jamin Davis
  • LB: David Mayo

The linebacker's ability to make plays and provide support to the defensive line will be critical to the Commanders' defensive success. The coaching staff will need to work closely with the linebackers to develop their skills and ensure that they are executing their assignments effectively. The performance of the linebackers will have a direct impact on the team's ability to stop the run and cover opposing offenses. A strong and reliable linebacker corps can give the Commanders a significant advantage over their opponents.

Cornerbacks: Kendall Fuller Leads the Secondary

The cornerback position is led by Kendall Fuller, a veteran who has been a consistent performer for the Commanders. Fuller is a versatile cornerback who can play inside or outside, and he's a reliable tackler and cover corner. The Commanders also have Emmanuel Forbes, Benjamin St-Juste, and Danny Johnson providing additional depth and competition. Forbes is a rookie who the Commanders hope will quickly develop into a reliable starter.

The cornerbacks' ability to cover opposing receivers and make plays on the ball is essential to the success of the defense. Their performance can have a significant impact on the team's ability to limit opposing passing attacks and create turnovers.

• Projected Depth Chart:
  • CB: Kendall Fuller
  • CB: Emmanuel Forbes
  • CB: Benjamin St-Juste
  • CB: Danny Johnson

The cornerback's ability to shut down opposing receivers and create turnovers will be critical to the Commanders' defensive success. The coaching staff will need to work closely with the cornerbacks to develop their skills and ensure that they are executing their assignments effectively. The performance of the cornerbacks will have a direct impact on the team's ability to limit opposing passing attacks and compete against some of the league's best offenses.

Safeties: A Mix of Youth and Experience

The safety position features a mix of youth and experience. Kamren Curl is the leader of the group, providing a physical presence and solid coverage skills. Alongside Curl, the Commanders have Darrick Forrest and Percy Butler, both of whom bring athleticism and potential to the position. The safeties' ability to provide support in the running game and cover opposing receivers is crucial to the success of the defense. Their performance can have a significant impact on the team's ability to limit opposing offenses and create turnovers.

• Projected Depth Chart:
  • S: Kamren Curl
  • S: Darrick Forrest
  • S: Percy Butler

The safety's ability to make plays and provide support to the cornerbacks and linebackers will be critical to the Commanders' defensive success. The coaching staff will need to work closely with the safeties to develop their skills and ensure that they are executing their assignments effectively. The performance of the safeties will have a direct impact on the team's ability to stop the run and cover opposing offenses. A strong and reliable safety corps can give the Commanders a significant advantage over their opponents.

Special Teams: Reliable Specialists

Special teams are often overlooked, but they play a crucial role in the outcome of games. The Commanders have reliable specialists in Tress Way (punter), Joey Slye (kicker), and Mitch Morse (long snapper).

Way is one of the league's best punters, consistently pinning opponents deep in their own territory. Slye has been a reliable kicker, converting a high percentage of his field goal attempts. The special teams unit's ability to execute consistently can give the Commanders a significant advantage in field position and scoring opportunities.

• Projected Depth Chart:
  • P: Tress Way
  • K: Joey Slye
  • LS: Mitch Morse

The special teams' ability to consistently perform at a high level will be crucial to the Commanders' overall success. The coaching staff will need to emphasize the importance of special teams and ensure that the players are well-prepared and executing their assignments effectively. The performance of the special teams unit can have a direct impact on the team's ability to win games.

Final Thoughts

The Washington Commanders depth chart reveals a team with strengths in the defensive line and receiving corps, but also some question marks at quarterback and linebacker. The development of Sam Howell will be a key storyline to watch, as will the performance of the offensive line in protecting him. If the Commanders can stay healthy and get contributions from their key players, they have the potential to be a competitive team in the NFC East. Keep an eye on these position battles and player developments throughout the season!