The Washington Commanders are hoping to be refreshed and recharged after their Week 12 bye, as they look to end their six-game losing skid on Sunday Night Football against the Denver Broncos.
It provided a much-needed opportunity for head coach Dan Quinn and his staff to re-evaluate expectations moving forward. The Commanders aren't going to make the playoffs. Therefore, the remaining six games should focus on developing young players who can help Washington in the long run.
That's easier said than done, especially given the way the Commanders' roster is constructed. Most of Washington's younger players are stuck on the depth chart behind veterans brought in to win now, who remain more productive. But adjustments can — and must — be made.
Commanders should begin to transition away from Bobby Wagner after the bye
There is no minimizing the impact Bobby Wagner has made on the Commanders. Besides Jayden Daniels or Terry McLaurin, he was likely the player who was most responsible for Washington winning 12 games last season and qualifying for the NFC Championship game. He helped change the culture while still performing at an All-Pro level.
He was also only going to hold up for so long. This season, his 35-year-old age has shown in a bad way, making him a liability in pass defense. Wagner is not a player who should be on the field for all three downs, which the Commanders are still using him for.
He's appeared in more than 99 percent of Washington's defensive snaps, more than any defensive contributor. With retirement likely on the horizon, the Commanders need to see what else they have.
Wagner's usage is not only excessive for himself, but it's also limiting Washington's young linebackers. Jordan Magee has been on the field more often in recent weeks, but he's still only getting about half of the snaps. Kain Medrano and Ale Kaho haven't been involved at all beyond special teams.
Quinn and Wagner go back a long way. They were together with the Seattle Seahawks in 2013 and 2014, when the future head coach served as the defensive coordinator for the famous Legion of Boom unit that featured the Utah State product. They have an exceptional relationship, and that's precisely why a heart-to-heart is needed.
Wagner is one of the Commanders' most trusted on- and off-field leaders. Sometimes, you have to take one for the team.
His final act of service in Washington should be helping the organization transition to a world after him.