Ron Rivera Offers Update on Commanders' D-Line Reserves Practice vs. Ravens

The Washington Commanders' defensive line reserves got in some important work in joint practices with the Baltimore Ravens, and Ron Rivera liked what he saw.

The Washington Commanders' defense might have surprised some people last season as Jack Del Rio's unit finished seventh in the NFL for points allowed (20.2 per game).

With such a ferocious defensive front that includes Jonathan Allen, Chase Young, Daron Payne, and Montez Sweat, Washington has some serious firepower. But what about those behind them in the pecking order?

As Washington and the Baltimore Ravens hold joint practices, the Commanders' backups are getting some valuable reps, including Efe Obada. But how has the veteran looked thus far?

"He's been solid," Rivera said. "I mean, he's a guy that gives you a little versatility as well. Not just an outside guy, but he's also a three-technique on passing situations. Does a good job with his rushes."

Obada played all 17 games last season (started just once) and managed to grab himself four sacks, four tackles for loss, and eight quarterback hits. He is getting valuable reps as he looks again to be a consistent cog along the defensive line.

There there's Casey Toohill and James Smith-Williams, both of whom are looking at making the most of their chances.

Rivera has kept a close eye on both during training camp but needs to see a little more from the pair.

"Well, they gotta continue to be explosive off the edge," Rivera said. "I mean, we need guys like that to get vertical and get into the quarterback more than anything else. And again, it's a good opportunity for them to work against somebody different."

The Commanders' starters along the defensive line are in the upper echelon in the NFL, those behind them need to make sure there isn't a big drop-off in production, luckily, that is what training camp is for.

With Obada, Toohill, and Smith-Williams getting vital reps against the Ravens and likely in the Commanders' remaining preseason games, if they take their opportunities, Del Rio will have depth along the line that most of the league would envy.

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