Molding the perfect Commanders NFL Draft strategy in 2023

What are the Commanders’ big draft needs?

Prior to the Super Bowl, I was following the fairly standard line of reasoning. The Washington Commanders are weak at tight end, offensive line, linebacker, and cornerback. They are strong at wide receiver, running back, defensive line, and safety.

Contract concerns about some of those defensive linemen mean that the team should probably continue to add some depth there. Quarterback exists in its own universe.

So basically, we are looking at going after offensive linemen, corners, linebackers, and tight ends in the draft, while of course snapping up any real values at other positions. Fortunately, this looks like a deep draft for protectors and tight ends.

The cornerback position seems top-heavy, with several excellent prospects likely going in the middle-to-late first round. There is a greater drop-off at corner than at other positions of need, so a very broad strategy looks like this: get your stud corner at No. 16 overall, then load up on some linemen on Days 2 and 3.

It would also be worth Washington finding a pass-catching tight end in the middle rounds, along with a linebacker or two. If at all possible, trade down and gather more picks, either this year or next.

For instance, if the Commanders could get someone like Kelee Ringo or Eli Ricks at the end of Round 1 or early Round 2, I would be looking to trade back. But that isn’t always possible, so I’m assuming for now Washington will be playing the hand they have been dealt.

That was my general philosophy prior to the Super Bowl. Then I watched the Kansas City Chiefs.