Washington Commanders Finalize 53-Man Roster Ahead NFL Deadline

The Washington Commanders face a crucial roster cutdown to 53 players by Tuesday, with head coach Dan Quinn and GM Adam Peters evaluating talent intensively after an 0-3 preseason that saw many key players rested. The team traded running back Brian Robinson Jr., opting instead to carry four running backs—Austin Ekeler, Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Chris Rodriguez Jr., and Jeremy McNichols—with rookie Croskey-Merritt and Rodriguez Jr. emerging as promising contributors. The quarterback situation remains uncertain, as Josh Johnson and Sam Hartman are unlikely to make the active roster, and the Commanders may seek a third quarterback due to Marcus Mariota's injury concerns. Wide receiver Deebo Samuel's versatility is being leveraged with occasional use in the backfield, highlighting a strategic adaptation by the Commanders following Robinson's departure. These roster decisions reflect a focus on versatility and youth, with coaches emphasizing standout performances in practice and preseason as critical to securing spots. The team is preparing for a season opener against the New York Giants, with the final roster expected to evolve following the cutdown deadline.