2023 Mock Draft 3.0: Commanders take potential Heisman Trophy finalist

Round Three (Compensatory Pick)

Darnell Wright, Offensive Tackle, Tennessee

If you’re going to draft their quarterback, then you should draft one of his best pass protectors.  Contrary to what some may claim in East Tennessee, Darnell Wright is not the same height as Clingmans Dome – the tallest mountain in the Great Smokies.  At 6-6, 335 pounds, Wright comes close.  He has extensive experience at both tackle positions and while he has played at left tackle in the past, Wright is a better fit at right tackle in the NFL (his current gig).

Drafting a right tackle is certainly a solid strategy for the Commanders.  This would allow Sam Cosmi to move to right guard – a likely better fit for him and Washington.  That would solve two issues with just a singular pick.  Wright is rated as a fourth round prospect by some analysts while others grade him as a second rounder, but he has a good chance of being there when Washington selects later in the evening on day two.

Wright should lose about five to ten pounds and gain some muscle mass.  A slightly leaner frame would improve his quickness in the rushing offense and be much nimbler as a pass protector.  At the very least, Wright could start by mid-season in year one.  One other note – Wright thought about transferring from Tennessee after the program faced some NCAA violations a few years ago, but he decided to remain loyal to the team and give his best efforts to the Volunteers.  That kind of dedication will serve Wright well at the next level.

Round Four

Demarvion Overshown, Linebacker, Texas

A couple of years ago, Demarvion Overshown was the talk of analysts and college football fans across the nation.  The only thing that has changed is the number of linebackers that have caught up to his skills.  Overshown is still a much better-than-average player and he would be a solid pick in the middle rounds.

Similar in size to Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, Overshown has talents that are also similar to the Cleveland Browns standout, but could use some more polish to his game.  He is currently having a very good season for the Longhorns and is one of the better tacklers and linebackers in the Big 12 Conference.  Overshown can quickly get to the quarterback for a sack or just put heavy pressure in blitz packages.  He can shed blocks and limit running backs or provide solid pass coverage against tight ends, receivers, and running backs on the perimeter or crossing over the middle.

With solid sideline-to-sideline speed, Overshown demonstrates solid pursuit.  How would he do at Buffalo nickel?  It could take him some time to learn the Buff, but it would be another talent to add at the next level.

With the continued improvement of Cole Holcomb and Jamin Davis, Overshown would be a depth piece in his first season.  He could work his way into the rotation later in his first season or certainly in year two.  Overshown is definitely not a project and is likely to have a good career in the NFL.