4 contenders for the Washington Commanders first-round pick in 2023
By Dean Jones
Washington Commanders could draft Christian Gonzalez
- Cornerback | Oregon Ducks
The NFC East has an abundance of elite pass-catchers capable of taking over any game at the drop of a hat. Something the Washington Commanders also have with Terry McLaurin, who overcame the team’s ongoing quarterback issues to put together another stellar campaign in 2022.
Defending the pass was something the Commanders did effectively last season, giving up just 191.3 passing yards per game. However, they cannot afford to stand still given how much their divisional rivals could also improve before competitive action commences once again.
Adding a big-bodied cornerback early in the 2023 NFL Draft might be something to consider if Washington avoids the temptation to select a quarterback. Christian Gonzalez fits the bill and is well worth the Commanders’ time during the all-important assessment process.
Gonzalez came of age at Oregon last season to emerge as one of the brightest young defensive backs in the country. He has the necessary speed to track receivers downfield and possesses the natural instincts needed to create turnovers when opportunities arise.
The prospect has no trouble getting physical in press coverage thanks to his 6-foot-2 frame. Gonzalez should also test exceptionally well at the NFL Scouting Combine with blazing speed and eye-catching agility.