3 takeaways from Ron Rivera-Martin Mayhew pre-draft press conference

1. Trading Back Seems Very Realistic

We’ve speculated on the possibility of Washington trading back in the first round throughout the pre-draft process. After trading a 2022 third-rounder and likely 2023 second-rounder for Wentz, it would behoove the Commanders to inquire about moving down in the name of trying to recoup a mid-round pick.

While Mayhew didn’t confirm Washington will make a trade, he gave a pretty telling quote about the team’s current assortment of draft picks, saying “I doubt we’ll end our draft with six picks. There will be some movement, whether up or back.”

It’s been widely debated whether the Commanders gave up too much — in terms of both draft capital and cap space — to acquire Wentz. Trading back, whether it be in the first round or on Day 2 or 3, to attain an additional pick or two would go a long way towards flipping that narrative.

More importantly, it would give Washington more ammo to build their roster. Think about it like this: Using their lone fourth-round pick on a tight end when there was a whopping 66 players between their No. 47 pick would’ve been a tough sell.

By acquiring an extra pick, it wouldn’t be so difficult. The same argument can be made for drafting a running back. Bottom line is trading down would give the Commanders flexibility they don’t currently have without a third- and fifth-round pick.

Based on Mayhew’s comments, it’s definitely in the cards.