The action is going to be physical, competitive, and everything in between when the Washington Commanders come together for training camp. And the stakes are higher than they've been in decades.
No longer is this big market franchise considered among the bottom-feeders. The Commanders are not languishing in obscurity or being perceived in a bad light around the league. They are among the Super Bowl favorites and an organization on the up under a much-improved leadership structure.
That brings different expectations and pressure for everybody. It's been a long time since the Commanders were in the limelight for all the right reasons. Players and coaches must put in the required effort to ensure this becomes the start of a prosperous future. Nothing else will do.
Washington's roster looks in better shape. Adam Peters increased standards throughout the recruitment period, making aggressive moves and tying down the large majority of players who gave so much to the cause last season. This was a big plus, but heightened competition for roster spots makes training camp a sink-or-swim scenario for many on the fringes.
With this in mind, here are five Commanders veterans who could lose their jobs in a hurry if the performance levels aren't up to the necessary standards.
Commanders veterans who could lose their jobs in a hurry at training camp
Michael Deiter - Commanders OL
The Washington Commanders' offensive line underwent some positive improvements this offseason. Laremy Tunsil and Josh Conerly Jr. lead the way as the new starting tackle tandem. The arrival of one more intriguing veteran could also shake things up on the interior for good measure.
Nate Herbig missed the 2024 campaign through injury, which ended his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers as expected. The Commanders seemed satisfied enough by his medical assessments to take the plunge, and the versatile piece has his sights set on a key backup role when the 2025 campaign arrives.
Herbig can play anywhere along the interior. Arguably, his best spot is the center position. The Commanders have Tyler Biadasz as their undisputed starter, so that leaves Michael Deiter as a sacrificial lamb if the free-agent signing is as advertised.
Deiter joined the Commanders last year in the same spot as Herbig is now. He was expected to be a dependable depth piece behind the starting five, but he never came close to providing the assured production needed. Getting a new one-year deal this offseason kept continuity, but it would be surprising if he made the squad when push came to shove.