Re-grading the Commanders 2022 NFL Draft class after Year No. 1
By Dean Jones
Phidarian Mathis – Commanders DT
- Alabama Crimson Tide | Pick No. 47 overall
Misfortune can strike on the injury front at any time where the NFL is concerned. That’s just the nature of the business and something Phidarian Mathis experienced to his detriment early in his rookie campaign.
The formidable defensive lineman played just four snaps in the Washington Commanders’ season opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars before going down with a complication. This turned out to be a torn meniscus, which ended his rookie year before it began.
Mathis has been working hard throughout his rehabilitation, staying engaged and putting in the time that should stand the Alabama product in tremendous stead when the medical staff clears him for team activities later this spring. Something that was further echoed by head coach Ron Rivera when discussing the player recently.
"“He’s been doing great. He comes in every morning, gets his workout in. He’s pretty much done with the basic rehab. Now it’s all just maintenance. But I got a chance to really watch him work out and see him developing and working on his explosiveness, his overall strength, core strength. I’ve gotten a lot of good reports on him as far as those things are concerned.”"
Draft Grade: Incomplete
It would be harsh to give Mathis a grade given his rough luck. But if the player makes a strong impression this offseason, there could be a prominent spot on Washington’s talented defensive line in his immediate future.