Final Washington Commanders 2022 Mock Draft

***Trade***

The Washington Commanders trade down to the latter portion of round two.  The trade nets selections in the third and fifth rounds this year and a 2023 seventh round draft pick.

Troy Andersen, Linebacker/Athlete, Montana State – 6-4, 245

*** The Numbers

• Hand: 9.25
• Arm: 32.5
• Wing: 78
• Vertical: 36
• Bench Press: DNP
• Broad Jump: 10’8”
• 3 Cone: 6.77
• Short Shuttle: 4.07
• 40: 4.42

There is a lot to say about one of the most intriguing players in the 2022 NFL draft, but here is what yours truly said about him last month in our big, two trade mock last month:

"There is a reason why the Washington Commanders have met more than once with Troy Andersen.  The team broke bread with him at the Senior Bowl and then had a formal meeting with the standout linebacker at the NFL Combine.  The interest is genuine and very real.  For the first time in doing mock drafts since 2010, yours truly has decided to add the “athlete” label for a prospect. “Athlete” may sound vague, but Troy Andersen is arguably the best overall middle linebacker in this class and that is not an exaggeration.  Also, he is arguably the best overall athlete in this draft.  Playing for a program that is located in the vast Big Sky expanse of Montana (State) does hurt his standing in the draft this year, but his talent is undeniable.  Andersen could have the greatest impact of any rookie in 2022 and it is possible that he lasts until the third round, but don’t be surprised if scouts, analysts, and coaches think of him as a legitimate second round talent. In his first season at Montana State (2017), Troy Andersen was a running back and linebacker.  As a freshman, he was an Academic All-Conference player and completely impressed as a two-way stud.  Andersen was the conference’s “Freshman of the Year” – primarily for his rushing skills.  In his first game as a Bobcat (not a Bearcat), he tallied more than one hundred yards on the ground. In 2019, Andersen switched to full-time linebacker and fullback – not because the team decided to make the changes, but he wanted new challenges for that season and his coaches obliged.  In ten games that year, Mr. Everything registered 11.5 tackles for a loss, five pass breakups, 6.5 sacks, two hurries, and an interception.  He also rushed for seven touchdowns, ran for 336 yards, and tossed a touchdown pass.  For his efforts that season, Andersen was named first team all-conference and he was named a first team All-American."

There was more about him in that article (feel free to read what was said), but Andersen is quite the football player.  It is probably something of a reach to take him at this moment in the draft, but there could be a few teams looking to “steal” him late in the second round.  Middle linebacker is a need for Washington and adding Andersen at this opportune time would be a smart choice.  Yes, he is more of an early third round prospect, but his intangibles and overall talent can’t be overlooked.

https://twitter.com/ashleyjwashburn/status/1514640297061351429

Think about the unique possibilities of drafting Andersen.  On occasion, he can come into the game in a wildcat formation at quarterback and run or pass the ball.  How about lining him up as a fullback on short yardage or goal line plays?  The coaching staff probably prefers to limit his availability on offense in Andersen’s first season and allow him to adjust to the nuances of the NFL.  It’s certainly an interesting thought and one that could actually happen.

Other Possible Selections

• Chad Muma, Linebacker, Wyoming
• Jalen Pitre, Free Safety/Strong Safety, Baylor
• Christian Harris, Linebacker, Alabama
• Tariq Woolen, Cornerback, Texas-San Antonio
• Kenneth Walker, Running Back, Michigan State
• Trey McBride, Tight End, Colorado State