Washington and Tracy undoubtedly have shown some skills during the winter, spring and now pre-season practices. But I believe it's a little too soon to believe either of them will rise to the performance level of Porter or King.
I also believe some of what went into the decision to "green light" them both is the fact that PSU's top 3 CB's, basically the whole starting CB group, will not be at PSU in 2024. Smith needs to develop a new CB depth chart for 2024 and he needs to do it in 2023 in order for the CB room to not go from a definate strength to a definate weakness.
For 2024, from the current roster not considering incoming transfer CB's next off season, the starting CB's would project to be Miller, Washington and Tracy. I believe the staff will try and find a transfer to come in and play in 2024, even if they believe that 1 or 2 of the 2024 class CB's can come in and contribute.
Another interesting question for Franklin given the two CB green lights, now or possibly later in the season, might be to ask how Payne and Collins are practicing and if they will get some snaps as the season goes along, as they as well may need to be ready for serious game action in 2024 unless Smith and Diaz bring in an experienced CB transfer or two.
