As we look toward the 2023 regular season, we count down the most important players for the Washington Commanders ahead of training camp. On Wednesday, No. 22 was punter Tress Way.
We continue our countdown today with No. 21, tight end Cole Turner.
There were questions about Washington’s tight ends before Armani Rogers was lost for the season during OTAs. While the Commanders were excited about Rogers, and rightfully so, remember, it was Turner who made everyone take notice last offseason.
After impressing coaches and teammates during OTAs in 2022, Turner got off to a strong start in training camp. It looked like Turner would impact Washington’s depth chart as a rookie. However, a hamstring injury lingered, costing Turner valuable time in the preseason, and he fell behind Rogers.
When Turner finally returned, he suffered a concussion and missed more time.
That’s all behind him now, and Turner impressed again in OTAs this spring. Veteran starter Logan Thomas is excited about Turner’s potential.
With so many questions surrounding the Commanders at tight end, they need Turner. Asking the 32-year-old Thomas to return to his 2020 form may be too much. That’s not to say Thomas can’t do it, but the odds aren’t in his favor.
John Bates enters his third season but plays a more defined role as a blocking tight end. Bates can catch the ball but lacks any explosiveness in the passing game.
The Commanders need Turner to emerge. The tight end position is essential in new offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy’s offense. Young quarterback Sam Howell could also use a young and dynamic threat like Turner.
Even if Thomas returns close to his 2020 form, the Commanders need one of their young tight ends to step up. That’s Turner. If he can remain healthy, Turner could prove to be Washington’s future starter at tight end.
