Analyzing the financial impact of Commanders’ 2022 draft class

Round 5 – QB Sam Howell

As we noted earlier, position doesn’t hold any value in determining rookie contracts, so Howell is at the mercy of where he was drafted. As the first pick of the fifth round, Spotrac anticipates the UNC product to sign for $4.021 million ($1.005 annually) with a $361,599 signing bonus and a $759,400 cap hit.

If Howell can somehow become Washington’s starter down the road, he’ll have ownership of one of the biggest contract steals in the NFL.

Round 5 – TE Cole Turner

Five picks later, the Commanders drafted Turner, who could log a significant snap share as a rookie if he picks up the playbook quickly. Expected to make less than $4 million over the next four years, Turner gives Washington incredible balance at the tight end position alongside 2021 fourth-round standout John Bates.

Round 7 – OG Chris Paul

Any young GM in need of a blueprint to build an offensive line, look no further than the Commanders as your top point of reference. As one of the best left tackles in the NFL, Charles Leno’s annual salary ranks 18th(!) at the position. Chase Roullier, Andrew Norwell, Wes Schweitzer and Trai Turner are all on bargains, too.

At 6-foot-3 and 324 pounds with a 9.46 relative athletic score and experience at both tackle and guard positions, Paul making an expected $3.764 million on his rookie contract almost seems unfair, especially if he cracks the rotation.

Round 7 – CB Christian Holmes

Last but not least is Oklahoma State corner Christian Holmes, who rounds out Washington’s class with a 9.06 RAS. After getting drafted, the former Cowboy told reporters he “clicked” with defensive backs coach Chris Harris.

Taken in the middle of Round 7, Holmes will average just north of $900K on his rookie deal and represents a further attempt by Washington to maintain cheap contributors to keep the secondary deep and talented while preserving cap space.