3 safest selections for Commanders in 2022 NFL Draft
By Jerry Trotta
The Washington Commanders have yet to make any new signings (therefore Charles Leno doesn’t count) or trades this offseason, but the 2022 NFL Draft will be here in no time once the legal tampering period gets underway next month.
It’s anyone’s guess as to what Washington’s drafting strategy is. You could say that for most teams, but we likely won’t have an idea of the front office’s plans until the quarterback market unfolds.
Acquiring Russell Wilson, for example, would throw a wrench into their draft plans as he would cost the team’s No. 11 overall pick. If they acquired a Jimmy Garoppolo or someone of that elk, though, the option to draft a quarterback in the first round would still be there.
Like we said, it’s nearly impossible to speculate.
With that in mind, we thought we’d highlight some of the safest picks for the Commanders. After all, if a star QB is acquired and wipes out the team’s draft capital in the process, it might be smart to draft guys with high floors … especially considering the 2021 draft has yielded less-than-ideal results thus far.
3 safest picks for Commanders in 2022 NFL Draft
3. Kenyon Green, OL, Texas A&M
With Brandon Scherff hitting free agency and unlikely to re-sign, Washington’s need for help along the interior of the offensive line is no secret.
While Wes Schweitzer and Saahdiq Charles are potential in-house replacements for the five-time Pro Bowler, it would behoove the front office to have an eye on the future and draft a guard somewhere in the first three rounds.
Enter Texas A&M Standout Kenyon Green, who’s played every position with the exception of center over his collegiate career. Versatility is a coveted trait in offensive linemen, and Green’s ability to play four different positions in a pinch makes him one of the safest selections in the late first or early second round.
In 2021 alone, Green played 80 or more snaps at left tackle, left guard, right guard and right tackle, according to Pro Football Focus. Despite regularly switching positions, he still earned a career-high 78.9 PFF grade for the season.
The 6-foot-4, 325-pound lineman has a relentless motor, always looks to assist teammates in blocking when uncovered and has tremendous knock-back power against power rushers. His hand placement could use some work, but John Matsko is one of the best offensive line coaches in the league.
For a player who projects as a Day 1 starter at either guard position and has backup swing tackle potential, the Commanders better have Green, who won’t turn 21 until mid-March, high up on their 2022 draft board.