Questionable Commanders signing already backfiring after minicamp injury

The Washington Commanders made a lot of good moves throughout general manager Adam Peters' second offseason in charge. But one questionable decision already looks like it could backfire.

Washington gave Michael Gallup a route back into the league after one year in retirement. The wide receiver didn't take being released by the Dallas Cowboys well and walked away from the game entirely rather than fight for a spot on the Las Vegas Raiders. Now, he's refreshed and refocused in pursuit of reminding the NFL world why he was a decent performer at the peak of his powers.

Gallup has no margin for error in his quest to make the 53-man roster. He might have proven production and familiarity with head coach Dan Quinn, but he's starting from the bottom. And the last thing he needed was a frustrating injury cropping up to damage his chances of making an early impression.

Michael Gallup's early setback places Commanders' roster hopes in doubt

There was no sign of Gallup over Washington's mandatory minicamp. He was reportedly dealing with a hamstring strain, and the Commanders felt that risking him wasn't worth it at this juncture. With Noah Brown also getting carted off and Terry McLaurin holding out as he awaits a new contract, it provided an opportunity for others to impress.

This did nothing to quash the concerns around Gallup. It'll be a nice story if he can make an impact on the offensive rotation, but he looks a long way from that right now. The wideout needs to get healthy in time for training camp. He also needs to hit the ground running after his latest health issue raised the stakes in no uncertain terms.

It's not costing the Commanders much to find out if Gallup can offer something to Washington's passing attack. The honeymoon period didn't last long, and the hamstring problem instantly placed him on the back foot. How he responds when the team comes together again is crucial.

Watching how Gallup responds to adversity will tell fans plenty about what (if anything) the Commanders should expect from the former Colorado State standout. But unless something changes quickly, Gallup's place on the 53-man roster is in serious jeopardy.