Adam Peters and Dan Quinn will have a good indication of where the Washington Commanders' roster stands right now. And with final cuts on the not-too-distant horizon, time is running out for anyone aiming to contribute in 2025.
There are new standards in Washington under the current regime. These were not met during their preseason capitulation against the New England Patriots, but it's worth remembering that 30 players didn't suit up for the clash.
That's more than half the roster that will likely go through to Week 1. Quinn made his feelings known to the players, and the fact that Peters made eight transactions in the defeat's immediate aftermath laid down the gauntlet in no uncertain terms.
Washington's decision-makers will be watching events unfold closely over the next fortnight before the dreaded cut-down day arrives. And even those who make the initial 53-man squad might not be safe if Peters sees some waiver wire pickups who could be of use.
It's a fascinating time for fans, and an extremely uncertain one for players aiming to stick around. With this in mind, here are five Commanders roster hopefuls plummeting down the depth chart as final cuts loom large.
Commanders plummeting down the depth chart as final cuts loom large
K.J. Osborn - Commanders WR
There was some intrigue when the Washington Commanders scooped K.J. Osborn off the waiver wire late last season after Noah Brown was placed on season-ending injured reserve. The veteran wide receiver's big move to the New England Patriots didn't go according to plan, but his previous production on the Minnesota Vikings left reasons for encouragement.
Osborn was used sparingly, brought in as an emergency option and nothing more. The Commanders kept him around this offseason, but that didn't come with any guarantees regarding his roster status.
There were concerns raised about the standard of receivers lower down the depth chart. The dynamic completely changes without Terry McLaurin, so the last week should serve as a wake-up call to Osborn and others.
The former fifth-round pick out of Miami brought in two receptions from five targets for 14 receiving yards against the Patriots. Osborn dropped a couple of makeable balls, which was disappointing. And with very few spots available, things like this are going to make a big difference.
All hope is not lost with Osborn. He'll probably get some extended involvement on Monday Night Football against the Cincinnati Bengals, but if he's still gaining prominent reps in Washington's warmup finale versus the Baltimore Ravens, that'll tell fans all they need to know about his outlook.