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Ex-Commanders starter already looking like a home run signing on new team
Former Washington Ciommanders safety Jeremy Chinn Ian Maule/GettyImages

Second-year general manager Adam Peters made more significant changes to the Washington Commanders roster this offseason. Some decisions will pay off handomely, while others will come under scrutiny as the campaign progresses.

And it already looks like a former Commanders starter let go by Peters in free agency is a home run signing for his new team.

One of the more contentious moves this spring centered on letting Jeremy Chinn walk in favor of the Las Vegas Raiders. The former second-round pick galvanized his career in Washington after being cast aside by the Carolina Panthers. Working in a stronger culture under the guidance of Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. was the spark that ignited him back to prominence.

Jeremy Chinn is thriving in Las Vegas after leaving Commanders in free agency

Chinn was nothing short of sensational throughout the campaign. The Commanders knew exactly how to put his instincts, dynamism, and athleticism to good use. Most fans thought the veteran safety would be extended, but Peters didn't think he was worth what the Raiders were offering.

The defensive back turned the page quickly. Chinn was eager to prove last season was the start of a profitable prime. Based on his early impact in Las Vegas, he looks more than capable of achieving this objective.

Las Vegas' coaching staff has been thrilled with Chinn so far. They praised his tone-setting approach on the backend, which instantly filled the void left by Tre'von Moehrig. His interception and one pass defense in the Raiders' preseason game versus the San Francisco 49ers point to his improving abilities in coverage, which is the final piece of his puzzle.

Chinn is brimming with confidence. He looks ready to take the next step and cement his status among the league's most impactful playmakers at the safety spot. If this scenario comes to fruition, one could forgive the Commanders for feeling a sense of regret.

Peters is moving forward with Quan Martin and Will Harris as his starting tandem. Jeremy Reaves' sensational summer propelled him into the No. 3 spot . Percy Butler is a solid special-teams player, and Tyler Owens could also increase his influence after getting more involvement with the defensive rotation at training camp.

That should be enough to help. But if Harris doesn't meet expectations and Chinn continues to thrive in Las Vegas, it won't take long for the doubts to surface.

There is a long way to go and a lot of football left, but Chinn is off to a fantastic start in a different environment.

More Commanders news and analysis


This article first appeared on Riggo's Rag and was syndicated with permission.

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