Commanders linked to veteran QB in free agency mock draft

The Washington Commanders were linked to veteran quarterback Derek Carr in a recent free agency mock draft from CBS Sports.

Although the Washington Commanders have a lot of faith in Sam Howell taking a huge leap forward en route to winning the starting job in 2023, it would be remiss of the organization if they didn’t keep all options on the table. This bears more significance now that Eric Bieniemy is in the building, who won’t want his offense stuttering because of more suspect play under center.

Howell will get a shot at earning a prominent role. The former North Carolina standout has the talent, but it’s a small sample size to go off with just one NFL start under his belt so far.

Finding another development project from the college ranks is an option. But given the urgency for Ron Rivera to make a playoff return next time around, adding to the quarterback room with a veteran is the most likely scenario.

Commanders linked to Derek Carr in CBS Sports free agency mock draft

This was a topic recently discussed by Cody Benjamin of CBS Sports, who linked the Commanders with Derek Carr in a special free-agency mock draft. Something that would be a bombshell of epic proportions.

"“Our first QB off the board! Washington might rather draft and develop here, but they’re not supremely positioned to secure a top prospect, making (Derek) Carr the next-best thing among proven starters. While more serviceable than special, the ex-Raiders leader has the gutsy mentality Ron Rivera would endorse. Paired with Eric Bieniemy and Terry McLaurin, maybe he could surprise.”"

This would completely shift the course for good or bad. Carr is currently taking tours of potential suitors following his release by the Las Vegas Raiders, but there’s been no inkling as yet that a trip to Washington is in the pipeline.

Considering the contract Carr is reportedly after and the needs elsewhere, this appears to be a non-starter for the Commanders. Although nothing can be ruled out at this juncture just two weeks before the free-agent frenzy officially begins.

Carr represents a short-term solution to an ongoing complication. It’s also worth remembering that the Commanders were burned by a veteran down on their luck last season after trading for Carson Wentz, which is a mistake those in power would be wise not to make again.

There’s a chance Carr could enjoy a career renaissance in a different environment. But if the Commanders do end up targeting the signal-caller, they’ll need to act fast with visits to the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints already undertaken.

One suspects this move would also eat up a large chunk of Washington’s salary cap. Howell’s financial outlay is much more reasonable as a fifth-round pick entering Year 2, so this represents the best-case scenario from a business standpoint.

Washington cannot gamble resources on another reclamation project that may or may not work out. Especially considering that Bieniemy has left an NFL MVP behind in Patrick Mahomes to take on this significant challenge.

Competition is coming for Howell. It just won’t be Carr all things considered.