Since the sale of the Washington Commanders to the Josh Harris Group, there has been a new level of excitement in the air. A once-dormant fanbase has been resurrected. A once near-empty FedEx Field is set to have a sold-out crowd for the Commander’s home opener against the Arizona Cardinals.
The Commanders looked impressive during the preseason with a 3-0 record. However, on Sunday in Landover, Maryland, the games now matter. Every player must be focused and ready to execute with precision.
To follow are three under-the-radar players to watch in Sunday’s season-opening contest:
1) LG Saahdiq Charles
The Commanders parted ways with two aging guards and are looking to rely on their more athletic players with little experience.
Charles has stood out this off-season in camp and on tape. His athletic ability is obvious, but watching the preseason tape, Charles is a mauling presence. The LSU product has great footwork and a solid base that allows him to explode into defenders. If he continues the success he had in the preseason, look for him to be a key component to the success of both the pass and run games.
2) LB Cody Barton
Barton will be a key part of this Commander’s defense, looking to start faster at the beginning of games. The former Utah standout had an outstanding season last year with the Seattle Seahawks where he recorded 136 combined tackles (84 Solo) and two interceptions. He can read and react, along with making sure tackles.
During the preseason, Barton was still getting used to how things are done in defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio’s scheme. It will be interesting to see if he can play faster in Week 1 and be able to react more and think less.
3) RB Brian Robinson Jr.
Nearly one year after being shot in a robbery attempt, Robinson said he feels more like himself every day. The second-year back is free from the lingering issues he dealt with last year in his right knee and hip.
The former Alabama product looked more explosive when hitting the hole during the preseason. He also seems to have more power and doesn’t get knocked down easily.
With the offensive line’s potential in the running game, it will be intriguing to see if Robinson can produce bigger runs. He averaged 4.6 yards per carry during the preseason.