Overlooked defender suddenly has almost no hope of cracking Commanders rotation (original) (raw)
The Washington Commanders are giving everyone a fighting chance of making their presence felt this offseason. General manager Adam Peters raised the level of competition across the board, and everything must now be earned. It's early days, but this strategy is bringing a positive response from almost everyone in the locker room.
However, one overlooked defender is already facing an uphill battle to establish himself.
Peters didn't hide his main offseason priority. Washington's front-office leader wanted to make the necessary defensive improvements, especially on the edge. After some intriguing additions in free agency and the draft, things are looking up. However, that won't be good news for everyone aiming for places on the 53-man roster.
Drake Jackson has an uphill battle to crack Commanders defensive rotation
That brings Drake Jackson under the microscope.
Jackson joined the Commanders last year after the San Francisco 49ers finally grew tired of his constant injury problems. Peters knew him well from their time together at the NFC West club, and he thought there was something left to salvage. He managed to get back late in the campaign, and the flashes displayed were enough for another one-year commitment.
That was a big confidence boost for Jackson. But the hard work is just getting started.
The Commanders suddenly have a surplus on the defensive edge. Odafe Oweh was the big splash in free agency. K'Lavon Chaisson is betting on himself wth a one-year deal after a breakout season with the New England Patriots. Charles Omenihu provides experience and versatility. Fifth-round rookie Joshua Josephs brings immediate rotational upside, and Dorance Armstrong Jr. is making encouraging progress from a serious knee injury.
These five are seemingly roster locks. That leaves little room for the rest, so Jackson faces a massive fight to remain part of the team's plans.
The former USC star has talent. Jackson was taken in the second round for a reason, but staying healthy is crucial. If he can do that and build up more confidence, he's got a shot.
Even so, the margin for error is slim.
Deatrich Wise Jr.'s run-stopping prowess gives him inside-out versatility that could be useful. Javontae Jean-Baptiste is looking to make up for lost time after getting hurt early in 2025. They both have legitimate claims, so Jackson needs to get ahead of this duo and stay there.
Jackson might make the team, but his chances of cracking the defensive rotation appear bleak. The Commanders have some starting-caliber options and enhanced depth. This was imperative to enhance their bounce-back chances, but it doesn't make things any easier for those on the roster bubble.
It'll be interesting to watch Jackson's progress over the summer. But from the outside looking in, it doesn't look especially promising.
Add us as a preferred source on Google