Washington Commanders: 7 Players Facing Their Final Season?

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Post on Apr 08, 2025

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Washington Commanders: 7 Players Facing Their Final Season? A Roster Shakeup on the Horizon?

The Washington Commanders are entering a pivotal season, and for several key players, 2023 might be their last stand in burgundy and gold. With a new coaching staff and a renewed focus on building a winning culture, tough decisions loom large. Several veteran players face uncertain futures, their contracts expiring, and their performance under intense scrutiny. Let's examine seven Commanders who could be playing their final games in Washington.

The Veterans on the Clock:

This isn't about guaranteed cuts; it's about players whose futures are far from certain. Their performance this season will directly influence whether they remain in Washington beyond 2023.

1. Terry McLaurin, Wide Receiver: While undeniably a team leader and fan favorite, McLaurin's contract situation is a significant talking point. He's entering the final year of his rookie deal and is undoubtedly seeking a substantial extension. A standout performance this season is crucial to securing a lucrative long-term deal, either with the Commanders or another team. His production will be key in determining his future in Washington.

2. Daron Payne, Defensive Tackle: Payne is a cornerstone of the Commanders' defensive line, a disruptive force known for his run-stuffing ability. However, he's also playing on the final year of his contract, making him a potential cap casualty if the Commanders struggle to find sufficient cap space. A strong season could earn him a hefty extension, but a decline in performance might open the door for a trade or free agency.

3. Jonathan Allen, Defensive Tackle: Similar to Payne, Allen is a key figure on the defensive line and a crucial part of the team's defensive strategy. His contract situation mirrors Payne's, making his future in Washington dependent on both on-field performance and the team's salary cap flexibility. His leadership and consistency will be pivotal in determining his next contract.

4. Kendall Fuller, Cornerback: Fuller is a veteran cornerback with experience and leadership qualities. His contract situation makes him a player to watch closely. The team might decide to pursue younger talent at the position, impacting Fuller's chances of re-signing. This season's play will be crucial to his staying power.

5. Cole Holcomb, Linebacker: Holcomb's injury history is a concern, and his role could be diminished with the emergence of younger players. While a valuable contributor when healthy, his contract status and potential injury risk could make him expendable. A healthy and productive season is vital for his future with the Commanders.

6. Bobby McCain, Safety: McCain, a versatile defensive back, provides depth and experience but is also playing on an expiring contract. His role might become even more precarious with an influx of younger, potentially cheaper options. The team's needs and the emergence of other safeties will impact his future.

7. Carson Wentz, Quarterback: This is perhaps the most significant question mark. Wentz's future is heavily intertwined with his performance this season. While a comeback season would greatly impact his chances of staying, a repeat of last year's struggles could lead to his release. The team's commitment to Sam Howell adds another layer of complexity to his situation.

The Bottom Line:

The Washington Commanders face crucial decisions regarding their roster. The performance of these seven players will largely dictate their futures with the team. The upcoming season will be a defining one, not only for the players but also for the direction of the franchise. The coming months will offer valuable insight into the team's plans for the future. Will they be able to retain these experienced players, or will we see a significant roster shakeup in the coming off-season? Only time will tell.