5 veteran quarterbacks the Commanders could pursue in 2023

Commanders could sign Andy Dalton

Andy Dalton will turn 36 years old in October. But he was able to carve out a respectable season with the New Orleans Saints in 2022, tossing 18 touchdowns to nine interceptions for nearly 3,000 passing yards in relief of opening-day starter Jameis Winston.

Saints head coach Dennis Allen was so comfortable with Dalton under center that he remained their starter even after Winston was deemed healthy.

Now, he finds himself on the cusp of becoming a free agent once again, and his best use is likely as a veteran clipboard holder at this career point. Could he come in and win some games if needed, perhaps even start another extended slate of games if he has to in 2023 as he did in 2022? Probably, and that’s what makes Dalton so attractive as a backup.

Dalton has bounced around a bit since leaving the Cincinnati Bengals where he was selected in the second round of the 2011 NFL Draft. While he’s no spring chicken, the veteran has seen a lot over his 12-year career, including multiple playoff berths (five consecutive) and three Pro Bowls.

The Washington Commanders’ current quarterbacks coach Ken Zampese is familiar with Dalton as well, having coached him in the same capacity with the Bengals from 2011-2017. These were easily the best years of the player’s career.

New Orleans may make an effort to bring him back for 2023, but if he found his way to Washington, Dalton would be a strong piece to assist with the tutelage of Sam Howell.