Commanders Mock Draft 4.0: Another Carson Wentz Dream

Washington’s running back room has Antonio Gibson, J.D. McKissic, and Jaret Patterson as their three-headed room going into 2022. With McKissic’s contract extension both holding little value in terms of cap space allocation and very little long-term investment, Washington could use some juice in the backfield.

Commanders running back Antonio Gibson recorded some of the fewest 20+ yard rushing attempts last season with only four on the season. In addition, the team didn’t have one rush go for 40+ yards at all. In the receiving game, they had the 22nd most passing plays go for 20+ yards, and to the eye, Washington wasn’t able to capitalize on numerous vertical passing opportunities throughout last season.

Moreover, Washington needs a spark out in the open field, however they can get it. Whether it’s out of the WR room, or out of the backfield, someone needs to provide the orange juice. Georgia’s James Cook would be a great value add on Day 3.

Cook’s burst in the open field is next-level, as he’s able to get up to speed and explode the moment he passes the line of scrimmage. With 3.91 yards after contact per carry average and an elusive rating that places him in the mid-70th-percentile according according to Pro Football Focus, Cook is a runner that can make a play on any given carry.

In addition, Cook’s impact as a receiver will immediately be felt for the Commander’s offense. He’s only dropped one pass on 68 catchable targets throughout his collegiate career while placing in the top 20 in terms of yards per route run among all qualified RBs last season.

James Cook in Round 4 can not only be a potential replacement for whoever is on the hot seat in Washington’s running back room, but even more importantly, he adds a spark that this Washington offense desperately needs out in the open field.