Commanders Depth Chart: 2023 Roster & Analysis

Nov 3, 2025 by Admin 47 views

Hey Commanders fans! Let's dive deep into the Washington Commanders' depth chart for the upcoming 2023 season. Understanding the depth chart is crucial for grasping the team's strengths, weaknesses, and potential strategies. We'll break down each position group, analyze key players, and project how the roster might look heading into Week 1. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

Quarterbacks: The Heart of the Offense

The quarterback position is arguably the most important in football, and the Commanders are looking to solidify their signal-caller situation. Let’s break down the potential depth chart:

Starter: This is where things get interesting! All eyes are on Sam Howell to see if he can take the Commanders to the promised land. Howell's journey from a fifth-round pick to a potential starter is a compelling storyline. His arm talent and athleticism are undeniable, but consistency and decision-making will be key. The coaching staff has expressed confidence in him, but the preseason and early games will be crucial in determining his long-term future with the team. The Commanders need Howell to be the guy they hoped for when they drafted him.
Backup: Behind Howell, veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett provides a steady hand and valuable experience. Brissett is a proven backup in the NFL, known for his ability to step in and manage games effectively. His presence is a huge boost for the Commanders, as he can mentor Howell and provide a reliable option if needed. Brissett’s experience in different offensive systems makes him a valuable asset in the quarterback room. He can offer a different perspective and help Howell understand the nuances of the NFL game. Having a veteran like Brissett also allows the Commanders to avoid rushing Howell if he experiences any early struggles. Brissett's ability to keep the offense afloat in the event of an injury or performance dip is critical for the team's overall success. The Commanders are in a much better position with Brissett on the roster than they would be with a less experienced backup. His leadership and knowledge are invaluable assets to the team.
Third String: The Commanders also have Jake Fromm on the roster, providing additional depth at the position. Fromm is a young quarterback with potential, and he'll be looking to impress the coaches in training camp. He represents a developmental prospect who could potentially contribute down the line. While his chances of seeing significant playing time in 2023 are slim, his presence adds another layer of competition to the quarterback room. Fromm's progress during training camp and the preseason will be closely monitored by the coaching staff. He needs to show significant improvement to secure his spot on the roster and potentially become a viable backup option in the future. The Commanders are investing in his development, hoping he can develop into a reliable player for the team.

Running Backs: A Multi-Faceted Attack

The Commanders' running back corps is shaping up to be a key component of their offense. They have a blend of power, speed, and versatility in their backfield, giving them the ability to attack defenses in multiple ways. The depth chart at running back looks something like this:

Starter: Antonio Gibson is the leading man in the Commanders' backfield. Gibson's journey from wide receiver to running back has been impressive, and he’s established himself as a dynamic playmaker. His speed, agility, and receiving ability make him a threat to score every time he touches the ball. The Commanders will likely lean on Gibson as their primary ball carrier, but they also have other talented backs who will see playing time. Gibson needs to stay healthy and continue to improve his consistency to solidify his role as the team's top running back. He's shown flashes of brilliance, and the Commanders are hoping he can put it all together in 2023. His ability to break tackles and make defenders miss is crucial for the team's offensive success. Gibson's receiving ability also adds another dimension to the Commanders' passing game, making him a valuable weapon in various situations.
Key Contributor: Brian Robinson Jr. is a bruising runner who adds a different dimension to the Commanders' rushing attack. Robinson's inspiring comeback from a preseason shooting was one of the feel-good stories of the 2022 season. He's a tough, physical runner who excels between the tackles. Robinson's presence gives the Commanders a power running game, which is essential for controlling the clock and wearing down defenses. He's also a reliable pass blocker, making him a valuable asset on passing downs. Robinson's ability to grind out tough yards in short-yardage situations is crucial for the team's success in the red zone. His determination and resilience have made him a fan favorite in Washington. The Commanders are counting on him to continue his strong play and contribute to a balanced offensive attack.
Versatile Back: J.D. McKissic is the team's primary receiving back, known for his excellent hands and ability to make plays in the passing game. McKissic's role is crucial on third downs and in obvious passing situations. He's a reliable target for the quarterback and can pick up crucial first downs. McKissic's presence gives the Commanders' offense flexibility, as he can line up in the backfield or in the slot. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield makes him a difficult matchup for linebackers. McKissic's experience and versatility make him a valuable asset to the Commanders' offense. He's a player the team can rely on to make plays in critical situations. His ability to contribute in both the running and passing game adds a unique dimension to the Commanders' attack.

Wide Receivers: A Talented Group Seeking Consistency

The Commanders' wide receiver group has a lot of potential, with a mix of veterans and young players vying for targets. They need to find consistency and develop a reliable pecking order to maximize their offensive output. Here’s how the depth chart might shake out:

Top Target: Terry McLaurin is the clear-cut No. 1 receiver for the Commanders. McLaurin is a true star in the NFL, known for his speed, route-running, and reliable hands. He’s consistently been the team's top target and will continue to be a focal point of the offense. McLaurin's ability to stretch the field and make contested catches makes him a valuable weapon for the quarterback. He’s a leader on and off the field and sets the standard for the Commanders' receiving corps. McLaurin's presence commands attention from opposing defenses, which opens up opportunities for other receivers. His consistent performance and dedication make him a fan favorite and a cornerstone of the Commanders' offense. The team relies on him to make big plays and lead the way for the receiving group.
Emerging Star: Jahan Dotson showed flashes of brilliance in his rookie season and is poised for a bigger role in 2023. Dotson's speed and route-running ability make him a dangerous deep threat. He can stretch the field and create opportunities for McLaurin and other receivers. Dotson needs to build on his rookie season and become a more consistent performer. His ability to make plays downfield adds a crucial element to the Commanders' passing game. Dotson's development is key to the team's offensive success, as he has the potential to become a star in the NFL. His speed and agility make him a difficult matchup for defensive backs. The Commanders are excited about his potential and are looking for him to take a significant step forward in 2023.
Veteran Presence: Curtis Samuel is a versatile receiver who can line up in the slot or on the outside. Samuel's speed and agility make him a valuable asset in the short passing game. He can also contribute as a runner out of the backfield. Samuel needs to stay healthy and be a reliable target for the quarterback. His ability to make plays after the catch adds another dimension to the Commanders' offense. Samuel's experience and versatility make him a valuable asset to the team. He's a player the Commanders can use in a variety of ways to create mismatches. His presence gives the offense flexibility and the ability to adjust to different defensive schemes.

Tight Ends: Seeking a Reliable Target

The tight end position has been a question mark for the Commanders in recent years. They are hoping a player will emerge as a reliable target in the passing game. Let's look at the potential depth chart:

Potential Starter: Logan Thomas is the veteran of the group and has shown flashes of potential. Thomas's size and athleticism make him a potential red-zone threat. He needs to stay healthy and be a consistent performer to solidify his role as the team's top tight end. Thomas's experience gives him an edge, but he needs to improve his consistency in both the passing and blocking game. His ability to contribute in the red zone is crucial for the Commanders' offensive success. Thomas's size and strength make him a difficult matchup for linebackers and defensive backs. The Commanders are hoping he can become a reliable target and help improve their passing attack.
Up-and-Comer: Cole Turner is a young player with potential who the Commanders are hoping will develop into a key contributor. Turner's size and athleticism make him an intriguing prospect. He needs to continue to improve his blocking and route-running skills. Turner's development is crucial for the future of the Commanders' tight end position. He has the potential to become a valuable weapon in the passing game. The Commanders are investing in his development, hoping he can become a reliable player for the team. His size and athleticism give him a high ceiling, and the team is excited to see his progress.

Offensive Line: Protecting the Quarterback

The offensive line is crucial for any team's success, and the Commanders are looking to build a strong and cohesive unit. Protecting the quarterback and opening up running lanes are their primary responsibilities. Let's examine the potential starters:

Left Tackle: Charles Leno Jr. is a veteran presence and a reliable starter at left tackle. Leno's experience and consistency make him a valuable asset to the Commanders' offensive line. He's responsible for protecting the quarterback's blindside and is a key leader on the offensive line. Leno's presence provides stability and allows the Commanders to focus on developing other players. His ability to handle pass rushers and open up running lanes is crucial for the team's offensive success. Leno's leadership and experience make him a valuable asset to the team.
Left Guard: Saahdiq Charles is a young player who the Commanders are hoping will develop into a long-term starter. Charles's athleticism and potential make him an intriguing prospect. He needs to continue to improve his technique and consistency. Charles's development is crucial for the Commanders' offensive line. He has the potential to become a key contributor in both the running and passing game. The Commanders are investing in his development, hoping he can become a reliable player for the team. His athleticism and potential give him a high ceiling, and the team is excited to see his progress.
Center: Chase Roullier is a veteran center who provides stability and leadership to the offensive line. Roullier's experience and knowledge of the game make him a valuable asset. He's responsible for making the line calls and ensuring everyone is on the same page. Roullier's presence is crucial for the Commanders' offensive line. His consistency and leadership help the team operate smoothly. Roullier's ability to communicate and make adjustments is crucial for the team's offensive success. The Commanders rely on him to be a steady presence in the middle of the line.
Right Guard: Sam Cosmi is a young player who the Commanders are hoping will develop into a key contributor. Cosmi's athleticism and potential make him an intriguing prospect. He needs to continue to improve his technique and consistency. Cosmi's development is crucial for the Commanders' offensive line. He has the potential to become a key contributor in both the running and passing game. The Commanders are investing in his development, hoping he can become a reliable player for the team. His athleticism and potential give him a high ceiling, and the team is excited to see his progress.
Right Tackle: Andrew Wylie is a free-agent addition who is expected to start at right tackle. Wylie's experience and versatility make him a valuable asset to the Commanders' offensive line. He's a proven performer who can contribute in both the running and passing game. Wylie's presence adds stability to the Commanders' offensive line. His ability to play multiple positions gives the team flexibility. Wylie's experience and reliability make him a valuable addition to the team. The Commanders are counting on him to be a solid presence on the right side of the line.

Defensive Line: A Strength of the Team

The Commanders' defensive line is one of the strengths of the team, with a talented group of players who can pressure the quarterback and stop the run. This unit is expected to be a dominant force in the NFL. Here’s how the depth chart looks:

Defensive End: Montez Sweat is a key player on the Commanders' defensive line, known for his speed and pass-rushing ability. Sweat's athleticism and explosiveness make him a difficult matchup for offensive tackles. He needs to continue to improve his consistency and become a dominant force every game. Sweat's ability to pressure the quarterback is crucial for the Commanders' defense. His speed and agility make him a valuable asset in the pass rush. Sweat's development is key to the team's defensive success. The Commanders are counting on him to be a disruptive force and help lead the defense.
Defensive Tackle: Jonathan Allen is a dominant defensive tackle who anchors the Commanders' defensive line. Allen's strength and power make him a force against the run and the pass. He's a key leader on the defense and a consistent performer. Allen's presence in the middle of the line is crucial for the Commanders' defensive success. His ability to disrupt the line of scrimmage and pressure the quarterback makes him a valuable asset. Allen's leadership and consistency make him a cornerstone of the defense. The Commanders rely on him to be a dominant force and help the team win games.
Defensive Tackle: Daron Payne is another key player on the Commanders' defensive line, known for his strength and pass-rushing ability. Payne's presence alongside Allen makes the Commanders' defensive line one of the best in the NFL. He needs to continue to improve his consistency and become a dominant force every game. Payne's ability to pressure the quarterback and stop the run is crucial for the Commanders' defense. His athleticism and explosiveness make him a valuable asset. Payne's development is key to the team's defensive success. The Commanders are counting on him to be a disruptive force and help lead the defense.
Defensive End: Chase Young is a highly talented defensive end who the Commanders are hoping will return to his pre-injury form. Young's athleticism and pass-rushing ability make him a potential star. He needs to stay healthy and regain his confidence. Young's presence on the defensive line adds another dimension to the Commanders' pass rush. His potential to disrupt the quarterback is crucial for the team's defensive success. The Commanders are investing in his development and are hoping he can become a dominant force. His talent and potential give him a high ceiling, and the team is excited to see his progress.

Linebackers: A Unit in Transition

The linebacker corps is an area of transition for the Commanders, with a mix of veterans and young players competing for playing time. They need to find consistency and improve their run defense. Let's analyze the potential depth chart:

Key Player: Jamin Davis is a young linebacker who the Commanders are hoping will develop into a key contributor. Davis's athleticism and potential make him an intriguing prospect. He needs to continue to improve his instincts and coverage skills. Davis's development is crucial for the Commanders' defense. He has the potential to become a key contributor in both the run and pass game. The Commanders are investing in his development, hoping he can become a reliable player for the team. His athleticism and potential give him a high ceiling, and the team is excited to see his progress.
Veteran Presence: Cole Holcomb is a veteran linebacker who provides stability and leadership to the defense. Holcomb's experience and knowledge of the game make him a valuable asset. He's a consistent performer who can contribute in both the run and pass game. Holcomb's presence is crucial for the Commanders' linebacker corps. His leadership and experience help the team operate smoothly. Holcomb's ability to communicate and make adjustments is crucial for the team's defensive success. The Commanders rely on him to be a steady presence in the middle of the defense.

Cornerbacks: A Mix of Youth and Experience

The cornerback group features a mix of youth and experience, with several players vying for starting roles. The Commanders need to find consistency and improve their coverage skills. Here’s a breakdown:

Top Cornerback: Kendall Fuller is the veteran leader of the cornerback group. Fuller's experience and versatility make him a valuable asset to the Commanders' defense. He can play both inside and outside and is a consistent performer. Fuller's presence provides stability to the Commanders' secondary. His ability to cover multiple positions gives the team flexibility. Fuller's leadership and experience make him a valuable asset to the team. The Commanders rely on him to be a steady presence in the defensive backfield.
Emerging Talent: Benjamin St-Juste is a young cornerback who the Commanders are hoping will develop into a key contributor. St-Juste's size and athleticism make him an intriguing prospect. He needs to continue to improve his technique and consistency. St-Juste's development is crucial for the Commanders' secondary. He has the potential to become a key contributor in both the run and pass game. The Commanders are investing in his development, hoping he can become a reliable player for the team. His size and athleticism give him a high ceiling, and the team is excited to see his progress.

Safeties: A Solid Foundation

The safety position is a strength for the Commanders, with two reliable starters in place. They provide stability and leadership to the secondary. Let’s take a look:

Key Player: Kamren Curl is a key player in the Commanders' secondary, known for his versatility and playmaking ability. Curl's athleticism and instincts make him a valuable asset in both the run and pass game. He's a consistent performer who can contribute in a variety of ways. Curl's presence is crucial for the Commanders' defense. His ability to cover ground and make tackles is essential. Curl's reliability and versatility make him a cornerstone of the defense. The Commanders rely on him to be a playmaker and help the team win games.
Veteran Leader: Darrick Forrest is a veteran safety who provides stability and leadership to the secondary. Forrest's experience and knowledge of the game make him a valuable asset. He's a consistent performer who can contribute in both the run and pass game. Forrest's presence is crucial for the Commanders' secondary. His leadership and experience help the team operate smoothly. Forrest's ability to communicate and make adjustments is crucial for the team's defensive success. The Commanders rely on him to be a steady presence in the back end of the defense.

Special Teams: A Crucial Component

Special teams play a crucial role in the NFL, and the Commanders are looking for consistent performance in this phase of the game. A reliable special teams unit can provide a significant edge. Here's a quick look:

Kicker: The Commanders need to solidify their kicker position. A reliable kicker can be the difference between winning and losing close games. The team needs to find a consistent performer who can make clutch kicks. The kicker's performance is critical for the team's success.
Punter: Tress Way is a Pro Bowl-caliber punter who provides stability to the Commanders' special teams unit. Way's ability to flip the field and pin opponents deep is a valuable asset. He's a consistent performer who can be relied upon in critical situations. Way's presence is crucial for the Commanders' special teams. His ability to control field position gives the team an advantage. Way's consistency and reliability make him a cornerstone of the special teams unit.
Return Specialist: The Commanders need to find a dynamic return specialist who can provide a spark to the special teams unit. A player who can consistently make explosive returns can change the momentum of a game. The return specialist's performance is critical for the team's special teams success.

Final Thoughts

The Commanders' depth chart is shaping up to be competitive, with several key battles to watch in training camp. The team has talent at key positions, but they need to find consistency and develop chemistry. The 2023 season will be a crucial test for the Commanders as they look to compete in the NFC East. Keep an eye on these players and position groups as the season progresses. Let's go Commanders!