Dyami Brown is a curious case. There are times when the wide receiver looks dynamic enough to be a real asset in Kliff Kingsbury’s offensive scheme. However, there isn’t enough trust to make him a focal point just yet.
Considering the former third-round pick out of North Carolina is out of contract this offseason, that opportunity might never arrive.
The Washington Commanders need to strengthen their wideout room via free agency, the draft, or the trade market depending on which direction general manager Adam Peters goes down. What that means for Brown’s future is undetermined, but he can improve his chances by capitalizing on every target or carry that comes his way at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Brown has the athletic attributes to make a big play or two. If the Commanders can firmly establish the ground game early on, it should open things up in the passing game. Picking and choosing the spots to take downfield shots is a job for Kingsbury. When they arrive, the fourth-year-pro must deliver.
There is no grey area here. Either Brown seizes the moment when his number is called, or the Commanders will find someone who can during the upcoming recruitment period.
Dorance Armstrong Jr. – Commanders DE
The Commanders made Dorance Armstrong Jr. one of their top priorities when the legal tampering period before free agency began. Dan Quinn was suitably impressed with the defensive end during their time together on the Dallas Cowboys. Washington gave him a long-term deal and a significant increase in responsibilities.
Producing the goods from a rotational role with the likes of Micah Parsons taking up attention is one thing. Coming through as a primary focus of opposing protection schemes is something else entirely. Armstrong’s struggled at times with this steep transition, although he’s flashed enough to leave reasons for encouragement.
Armstrong’s 46 pressures accumulated this season rank 33rd out of 211 qualifying edge rushers. His pass-rush grade of 76.4 from Pro Football Focus ranks 22nd. The sacks might not be in plentiful supply, but the former Kansas standout is generating pressure when opportunities arise.
Things are less promising against the run. Armstrong doesn’t set the edge effectively enough and lacks gap discipline. That went relatively under the radar during the regular season, but it won’t suffice in the knockout rounds.
The Commanders need Armstrong to emerge as the complete package. Making veteran quarterback Baker Mayfield uncomfortable and keeping the former No. 1 pick contained in the pocket is a good place to start. That is the best way to cement his importance to the team’s long-term plans.
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