Which players could follow offensive coordinator/assistant head coach Eric Bieniemy to the Washington Commanders in 2023?
The Washington Commanders got their guy when Eric Bieniemy agreed to become their new assistant head coach/offensive coordinator. This came after lengthy talks earlier this week, which convinced the respected figure that this was the place to progress his career en route to potentially securing a head coaching role down the line.
This could come as early as 2024 considering how close Bieniemy’s been to attaining a top job. Something he should arguably already have following a standout stint with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Washington has enough in the way of talent for Bieniemy to make a significant impression. Providing some problem areas are reinforced this offseason, the Commanders’ offense should be well placed for a dramatic surge forward next time around.
On this topic, we picked out four players that could follow Bieniemy onto the Commanders in 2023.
Player No. 1
Commanders could sign Orlando Brown Jr.
This would be a long shot considering how much the Kansas City Chiefs gave up to acquire Orland Brown Jr. from the Baltimore Ravens. However, with no new contract confirmed just yet, the Washington Commanders and others around the league would be wise to monitor this situation with great interest.
Brown was an important blindside piece for Kansas City on their way to another Super Bowl triumph. If the former third-round selection did hit the open market – however unlikely that might be – then Eric Bieniemy knows better than most what he can bring to the table.
Commanders could sign Jerick McKinnon
Even though the Washington Commanders look pretty solid at the skill positions outside of perhaps seeking a new tight end, no team can ever have enough difference-makers on their roster. Something that could see Eric Bieniemy go back to a familiar face or two as he looks to hit the ground running in a different environment.
Brian Robinson Jr. and Antonio Gibson are expected to lead the running back room in 2023. The presence of J.D. McKissic is another option, although finding an upgrade on the backfield pass-catcher cannot be dismissed, either.
If this scenario comes to fruition, then the Commanders should examine Jerick McKinnon. The dual-threat weapon is out of contract and although the Kansas City Chiefs will likely attempt to extend him, taking his chances elsewhere is another realistic possibility all things considered.
McKinnon benefitted enormously from an increased role under Bieniemy in 2022. The much-traveled player gained 803 all-purpose yards and 10 combined touchdowns last season, which is something the Commanders could utilize within a more expansive offensive scheme.
This could be the last chance for McKinnon to get a payday. If the Chiefs cannot move enough money around, Washington has the resources to swoop.
Commanders could sign Mecole Hardman
As stated previously, Eric Bieniemy clearly saw enough at the skill positions to take this chance of making it on his own with the Washington Commanders. Betting on himself could reap some significant rewards long-term, which is the final hurdle to overcome in pursuit of landing a head coaching gig.
Surrounding himself with people that know his demands, come from a winning environment, and can slot in seamlessly to his scheme would be prudent. Although the chances of growth for the likes of Terry McLaurin, Curtis Samuel, and Jahan Dotson are there for all to see in the wide receiver room.
With that being said, if the Kansas City Chiefs and Mecole Hardman go their separate ways in free agency, the Commanders could add another dynamic pass-catcher. Something that can only assist Sam Howell or another potential quarterback option depending on what transpires throughout the offseason.
Hardman looked like a true breakout campaign could be in the offing before injury struck. The explosive wideout attempted to return for the Chiefs’ run to the Super Bowl, but he was unable to overcome the complication to finish with 25 receptions from 34 targets for 297 receiving yards and four touchdowns.
This is dependent on Hardman’s health and how valued the player is by Kansas City. But it’s a definite option for the Commanders now that Bienemy is on board.
Commanders could sign Marquez Valdes-Scantling
According to Over the Cap, the Kansas City Chiefs are $3.5 million in the red heading into the offseason. Not the worst position to be in, but some sacrifices must be made by those in power before important events such as free agency and the 2023 NFL Draft.
One primary cut candidate could be of interest to the Washington Commanders. Especially if the Chiefs decide to keep faith with Frank Clark despite the $21 million savings involved with his early departure.
Marquez Valdes-Scantling offers something a little bit different in terms of size that Washington doesn’t possess. This is matched by the sort of speed that can stretch the field at will.
While Valdes-Scantling has never been the most consistent pass-catcher, he came up big when the Chiefs needed him most throughout the postseason. This should provide the player with a robust market if Kansas City ends his contract ahead of time.
Adding Valdes-Scantling to a wide receiver room that already consists of Terry McLaurin, Curtis Samuel, and Jahan Dotson is a luxury – but something that would undoubtedly assist Bieniemy as he aims to take the Commanders’ offense up another notch next season.
Whether the Chiefs release him or not remains to be seen.