We are closing in one month since the Washington Commanders opened training camp. The Commanders have played two preseason games and have one remaining before general manager Adam Peters and Dan Quinn trim the roster to 53.
Peters and his staff will have some difficult decisions to make. Will he move on from any of Ron Rivera’s first-round picks? That seems unlikely. How many former Rivera picks will be left? How many offensive linemen will the Commanders keep? What about cornerback?
Also, how many of Washington’s 12 undrafted rookies will Peters keep? The Commanders spent big on UDFAs after the draft, with quarterback Sam Hartman, cornerback Chigozie Anusiem and safety Tyler Owens among the most prominent signings.
Hartman had a good summer before he was injured late in the first preseason game. He seemed always to be ticketed for the practice squad. Anusiem has been solid. However, Owens has been one of Washington’s camp standouts.
In reviewing each preseason game, Owens made our list of studs in both games. While the Commanders have depth at safety, Owens has firmly put himself in the conversation as a player Washington cannot afford to expose to waivers. He’s stood out defensively and on special teams.
He’s not the only undrafted rookie to stick out.
Running back Michael Wiley looks like he could steal the No. 3 running back job away from Chris Rodriguez Jr. Wiley has done a little bit of everything this summer. He’s shined as a runner and receiver out of the backfield. His most important attribute, though, may be his pass protection. Most rookie running backs struggle in pass protection. Wiley embraces it — and thrives.
Quinn has mentioned both young players unprompted multiple times in recent weeks. That doesn’t reveal the team’s plans but gives you a glimpse into what the head coach thinks of their ability.
Here’s Quinn’s comments on Owens and Wiley recently, courtesy of Ben Standig of The Athletic.
Dan Quinn gave a heads up when remarked on the special team's play of Tyler Owens after the preseason opener: https://t.co/IWrHU8noue pic.twitter.com/eXCT43jDCs
— Ben Standig (@BenStandig) August 21, 2024
The Commanders may be able to sneak Wiley onto the practice squad. It won’t be easy with Owens. His size/speed combination and his upside make Owens a prime target to star on special teams while he continues to develop as a safety.
These two will be players to watch in Sunday’s preseason finale against New England.
