One Commanders veteran might be going into his very last training camp battle

Good players almost always get second chances in the NFL. Some get third, fourth, or even fifth opportunities if they're talented enough. But for one Washington Commanders veteran looking to galvanize his career, this could be his very last training camp battle if it doesn't go well.

This is the common league cycle. Players down on their luck often get phased out when the NFL is done with them. It's a ruthless business where billionaire owners will tolerate you until they can replace you. That's the way it is and the way it's always been.

The Commanders are all about opportunity. They are raising competition, and those who prove their worth will get their just rewards. That's exactly what Washington is providing wide receiver Michael Gallup this summer.

Gallup's lack of motivation was glaring upon his release from the Dallas Cowboys last spring. This stung immensely, damaging his pride and morale. He couldn't raise himself enough to take his shot with the Las Vegas Raiders, retiring from the game after just six seasons.

Michael Gallup is entering the last chance saloon with Commanders at camp

The time away allowed Gallup to refocus and find his love for football again. Washington gave him a route back into the league, but it comes with no guarantees whatsoever. He'll have to earn his spot in a crowded wide receiver room just like everyone else.

Things began well enough for Gallup over early workouts. He found his groove quickly and looked capable of carving out a role for himself. Unfortunately for the wideout, a hamstring strain kept him out of Washington's mandatory minicamp, denting his momentum at the worst possible time.

This was a blow for Gallup; there's no getting away from that. But all hope is not lost with the former Colorado State standout just yet.

Gallup's got a few weeks to heal before camp. That's the first objective. After that, it's about hitting the ground running through consistent pass-catching and sharp route-running in a more intense setting.

Even that might not be enough, but Gallup has to come out of camp with credit, whether he earns a spot on Washington's 53-man roster or not.

A starring role, coupled with some impressive highlights when targets come his way in the preseason, might be enough for another team to take the plunge if the Commanders don't decide to take him through. If not, then his next NFL absence will be enforced.

This is the last chance saloon for Gallup, but he knew that coming in. And after walking away from the gridiron before deciding to come back, the stakes couldn't be higher.

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