Predicting Commanders’ first 5 cuts ahead of Tuesday’s deadline
The first preseason game is in the books, and that means it’s decision time for all 32 NFL teams. Per the NFL rules, every team must cut five players by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET to trim their roster from 90 players down to 85.
The Washington Commanders opened the preseason with a 23-21 loss to the Carolina Panthers. Several young Commanders made their NFL debuts in the loss, including rookie quarterback Sam Howell, who almost led Washington to a comeback win.
With multiple injuries in training camp, there will be tough decisions to make for head coach Ron Rivera and general manager Martin Mayhew.
Here are five players we predict the Commanders to release ahead of the first cut deadline.
WR Matt Cole
Washington Commanders wide receiver Matt Cole (18). The Panthers won 23-21. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
Matt Cole signed with the Commanders last week and played three snaps — all on special teams against the Panthers. What’s unfortunate for Cole is Washington’s depth at wide receiver. Undrafted rookie Kyric McGowan is battling Dax Milne and Alex Erickson for one, maybe two spots. Cole did return one kick for 27 yards, so if he sticks that means Washington likes his potential as a kick returner.
RB Reggie Bonnafon
Washington Commanders running back Reggie Bonnafon (38). (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
Three running backs are locks to make Washington’s 53-man roster: Antonio Gibson, J.D. McKissic and Brian Robinson Jr. Jaret Patterson and Jonathan Williams are having a healthy competition for the potential fourth spot. The numbers do not favor Bonnafon.
CB De'Vante Bausby
Washington Commanders cornerback De’Vante Bausby (32). (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
De’Vante Bausby was signed last week as the Commanders tried out four defensive backs. Bausby played 18 defensive snaps and six snaps on special teams. With several of Washington’s cornerbacks getting healthy and having been in camp longer, Bausby becomes the odd man out.
G Deion Calhoun
Washington Commanders guard Deion Calhoun (66). (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
Deion Calhoun played 10 snaps in the preseason opener. The Commanders clearly wanted rookie Chris Paul to receive plenty of action — and he was impressive. There are several interior linemen ahead of Calhoun right now.
S Ferrod Gardner
Washington Commanders safety Farrod Gardner (48). Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Ferrod Gardner is another young player Washington likes, but there is no path to a roster spot in 2022. The starters are Bobby McCain and Kamren Curl, while youngsters Darrick Forrest and Percy Butler are definitely on the roster. Jeremy Reaves and Steven Parker have taken turns impressing coaches for that fifth safety spot. Gardner played only 10 snaps in Saturday’s loss to the Panthers.
