The Washington Commanders have had a strong start to the season, currently holding a 3-1 record. They defeated the Arizona Cardinals 42-14 in Week 4 after a close win against the Cincinnati Bengals, 38-33, in Week 3. This is a positive indication as they aim to bounce back from a disappointing 2023 season.
The Commanders’ success has been a collective effort, with many high-performing players being acquisitions from the new management. In contrast, players from the previous regime have struggled to find consistent roles, with many already being cut or traded.
Among those lacking a defined role is Chris Rodriguez Jr. He was elevated from the practice squad for the Week 4 game but did not receive any carries against the Cardinals.
Bleacher Report’s NFL Scouting Department has suggested that the Pittsburgh Steelers should consider signing Rodriguez from the Commanders’ practice squad. They noted that both Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren are currently dealing with injuries, making it crucial for the Steelers to establish a running game to complement their strong defense. While Cordarrelle Patterson can help, he isn’t a traditional running back.
Rodriguez, a former sixth-round pick, averaged 4.8 yards per carry with the Commanders last season and could help lighten the load for Harris and Warren. It would be worth exploring his potential on the Steelers’ active roster.
Commanders’ Offense Has Been Historically Good in 2024
The Washington Commanders’ offense has been performing exceptionally well, which poses a challenge for players like Chris Rodriguez.
In their Week 4 game, the Commanders demonstrated a balanced attack, throwing for 233 yards and rushing for 216 yards. Their running game has been particularly effective, with Brian Robinson Jr. rushing for 101 yards and a touchdown on 21 carries. Jeremy McNichols had an impressive performance, scoring two touchdowns on eight carries for 68 yards. Quarterback Jayden Daniels also contributed significantly, completing 26 of 30 passes and rushing for 47 yards and a touchdown on eight carries.
Mike Sando from The Athletic analyzed the Commanders’ offensive performance, noting its elite status. He reported that Washington has scored on 68% of its drives, the highest rate for any team through four games since at least 2000, according to TruMedia. Notably, even Tom Brady’s 2007 New England Patriots didn’t score as frequently at the start of their unbeaten regular season.
Additionally, the Commanders’ offense has achieved at least 8.0 expected points added (EPA) in every game this season, a feat they hadn’t accomplished in more than two consecutive games from 2000 to 2023.
How Rodriguez Could Help the Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers have a run-heavy offensive approach, averaging 34.5 rushing attempts per game, which ties them for the most in the NFL.
However, this focus on the run has led to injuries, as both Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren are currently dealing with health issues. Additionally, Cordarrelle Patterson was ruled out for Week 4 after getting injured in the Steelers’ loss to the Indianapolis Colts.
Given these injury concerns, Chris Rodriguez, a former sixth-round pick from the Washington Commanders, could find a valuable role within the Steelers’ offense.
