Modest ranking should motivate current commanders in 2024

No two position groups are alike when it comes to Washington’s commanders. Adam Peters used his first offseason as general manager to hire nearly half of the playing staff. This is a drastic and necessary step to lay a better foundation for the future.

Washington’s backroom has been spared any significant upheaval. There was a major adjustment, which saw veteran Austin Ekeler join the ranks in free agency after Antonio Gibson walked in favor of the New England Patriots. This can’t be seen as anything other than an upgrade that should significantly help rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels.

Ekeler brings experience, red zone prowess and exceptional route running out of the backfield. Gibson offered similar qualities but lacked the same production. This should also complement the skills that Brian Robinson Jr. brings after an encouraging sophomore season in a professional environment.

Despite these encouraging signs, Trevor Sikkema of Pro Football Focus ranked the Commanders’ running back unit 24th in his league-wide rankings. That seemed a bit low, although the analyst predicted Ekeler could be in line for a bounce-back campaign after reuniting with former head coach Anthony Lynn in the nation’s capital.

“The Commanders ranked 16th in PFF rushing grade in 2023 before replacing Antonio Gibson with Austin Ekeler this offseason. Ekeler is coming off the lowest rushing and receiving grades in a single season (65.1 and 57 .4) of his career, but a change of scenery for him in Washington could lead to a rebound Behind Ekeler, Washington has Brian Robinson and Chris Rodriguez Jr., both of whom had rushing grades above 73.0 on the season. last.

– Trevor Sikkema, PFF

If those charged with backfield responsibilities needed extra motivation, they have it. Ignoring all outside noise was a key part of Washington’s offseason strategy under new head coach Dan Quinn. But bulletin board material like this can provide an extra sense of motivation to silence the doubters all the same.

This is a solid mix that offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury needs to take advantage of. Much will also depend on Washington’s much-maligned offensive line, which has flattered to deceive in recent years but should be improved on the interior thanks to the signings of Nick Allegretti and Tyler Biadasz.

If Ekeler proves there’s still something in the tank and Robinson takes another leap forward in year three, the Commanders will have a running back duo to set the tone. The Commanders can also give Chris Rodriuguez Jr. opportunities to shine after the 2023 sixth-rounder becomes a rookie.

It would be a major disappointment if the Commanders had the No. 24 rushing attack at the end of the season. This also doesn’t take into account Daniels’ dual-threat ability at center. Something that adds a different dimension and should keep opposing defenses honest from start to finish.

Washington’s offense was unbalanced and uninspired last season, with Eric Bieniemy at the helm. This time, there must be a strong emphasis on establishing the race. The Commanders have the personnel to make this work – which could make Quinn’s team difficult to beat once initial momentum is generated.

That’s the plan, anyway.