Commanders 5-round 2023 NFL mock draft: Molding a contender
By Dean Jones
Commanders draft Joey Porter Jr.
- Cornerback | Penn State Nittany Lions
It’s no secret that the Washington Commanders need to find themselves an athletic cornerback this offseason. Someone with the potential to lock down one side of the field consistently.
This is something the Commanders lacked on occasion in 2022. Kendall Fuller played at a high level, but those around him didn’t meet expectations and their lack of production proved crucial in Washington becoming the only NFC East team to miss out on the playoffs.
Fortunately for the Commanders, there is an abundance of viable cornerback options emanating from the college ranks this year. If Joey Porter Jr. is still on the board at No. 16 overall, he could be Washington’s guy.
The son of four-time Pro Bowl linebacker Joey Porter Sr. has all the tools needed to become a dominant presence in coverage. His size and length make him difficult to beat in press situations, with the player also boasting enough speed to track receivers downfield with relative comfort.
Another positive to Porter’s game is physicality. He gets right into wide receivers within the contact window and has the ball skills to create turnovers when opportunities arise.
Providing the Penn State product can progress his technique and impact against the run, his chances of carving out a prolific career for himself are high. Something the Commanders would be wise not to ignore.