Washington Commanders: 4 easiest roster decisions for the defense

2. Sign/draft an inside linebacker

What was the bigger storyline this season? Jamin Davis making a minimal impact as a rookie first-round pick or Cole Holcomb evolving into a stud?

Either way, the fact that the dreaded “b” word (bust) was floated alongside Davis’ name is a problem. He appeared in 16 of 17 games and his signature moment didn’t come until Week 18 against the Giants when he blew up a jet sweep at outside linebacker, which wasn’t even the position he was drafted to play!

The good news is Davis flashed real potential as a weakside linebacker and he and Holcomb could form a daunting partnership at the position. On the flip side, though, it puts a bigger onus on the front office to find an inside backer.

With the No. 11 overall pick, the Commanders, should they decide to wait on a quarterback, could have their pick between Devin Lloyd or Nakobe Dean. They could also nab a QB in the first round and draft a linebacker in Round 2, which has produced several impact players at the position in recent years.

Of course, Washington could also take to free agency and put some of their $30+ million in cap space to use. The 2022 class isn’t stacked, but the front office should be able to find someone who fits Jack Del Rio’s scheme fairly easily.

Whatever route the Commanders choose, an inside linebacker is the team’s biggest need this offseason outside of the QB position. How they address it could very well determine whether the defense improves upon a lackluster 2021.