Re-grading the Commanders 2022 NFL Draft class after Year No. 1
By Dean Jones
How did the Washington Commanders 2022 NFL Draft class fare after their first seasons in a professional environment?
It’s always interesting to see how first-year players evolve during their rookie seasons. For the Washington Commanders, they had eight 2022 NFL Draft selections – all of whom made the 53-man roster after impressive throughout the preparation period.
Some featured more than others. Not entirely unexpected when one considers the talent differential between the top-end talent and those further down the pecking order just looking for an opportunity.
Washington boasts eight picks once again in 2023, which should help their bid to make a postseason return. These could be spent individually or packaged in a trade should the right situation present itself.
That’s for the future. For now, we took a look and re-graded the Commanders 2022 NFL Draft class after Year 1 of their pro careers.
Round No. 7
Christian Holmes – Commanders CB
- Oklahoma State Cowboys | Pick No. 240 overall
Christian Holmes’ rookie contribution was restricted to special teams more often than not. When he did see time on the defensive rotation, the cornerback looked like he might need some additional development in pursuit of attaining more reps next time around.
Draft Grade: C-
This is an important offseason for Holmes. The Commanders will likely strengthen their cornerback options via free agency or the 2023 NFL Draft, so it remains to be seen whether the former seventh-round selection can carve out a bigger role for himself.
Chris Paul – Carolina Panthers OL
- Tulsa Golden Hurricane | Pick No. 230 overall
This also applies to Chris Paul, who was brought along slowly before eventually seeing prominent reps in Washington’s season finale against the Dallas Cowboys. The Tulane product gave up one penalty from 66 snaps, but more could be on the way providing he takes the necessary strides this offseason.
Draft Grade: C
Again, it would be a shock if the Commanders didn’t acquire some offensive line reinforcements in the coming months. Should this come to fruition, it piles additional pressure on Paul to make the right strides.