Commanders' biggest winner from final roster cuts is painfully obvious

The Washington Commanders have the NFL's oldest roster this season. Not entirely surprising when one considers the inept drafts over Ron Rivera's four years at the helm, which sparked a downward spiral that eventually landed the franchise Jayden Daniels.

Not a bad consolation prize, but it's forced Adam Peters into a change in strategy. But for his ambitious plans for progression to bear fruit, Washington's young players must also make a lasting contribution.

And there was one big winner from the team's final roster cuts who's coming to the fore at the best possible time.

Chris Rodriguez Jr. has gone from undesirable to undeniable with Commanders

Plans change quickly in the NFL. That was all too evident in Washington's running back room, which began with Brian Robinson Jr. being cast into the shadows and traded to the San Francisco 49ers for a sixth-round pick.

That was somewhat surprising, but it indicated a level of faith in the options already around. Among them was Chris Rodriguez Jr., who team insider Zach Selby believes is in line for a substantial role when all hope seemed lost once upon a time.

Chris Rodriguez Jr.'s emergence was another surprise from camp. He showed growth in the offense after being cut and sent to the practice squad last season, and that manifested in the form of a 40-yard run against the Bengals. The Commanders have plans for him as their short-yardage and goal line running back, but he could be primed for a more robust role.Zach Selby

This is better than even the brightest optimist envisaged for Rodriguez heading into Washington's preparations for the new campaign. The sixth-round pick got a new deal this offseason but found himself way down the pecking order. After taking advantage of every opportunity and displaying the correct resolve, he's gone from an afterthought to an important part of the team's plans.

Rodriguez has momentum on his side. But make no mistake, what comes next is even more crucial for his future career outlook.

The Commanders are giving him a shot. Considering Austin Ekeler, Jeremy McNichols, and seventh-round rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt are also on the squad, he must deliver. Otherwise, the Kentucky product could fall out of favor all over again.

Hopefully, it doesn't come to that. Rodriguez must keep running with the same urgency and aggression. He must continue to exploit small creases for big gains. He must also become a dominant red-zone presence when touchdowns are in sight.

If Rodriguez can do that, the Commanders' decision to bring him along for the ride will be vindicated. It could also earn him a longer-term commitment from the franchise next spring along the way.

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