4 Commanders who could tumble down depth chart after free agency
By Dean Jones
Andrew Norwell – Commanders OL
As stated previously, the Washington Commanders should address improving their offensive line as a matter of extreme urgency this offseason. No longer can the team rely on underperforming veterans and mid-level draft prospects – now is the time to spend big and finally solidify a unit that’s been crying out for stability over the last two seasons.
Much will depend on how attractive Washington appears to any veteran free agent. Eric Bieniemy’s presence should help from an offensive standpoint, but the recent NFLPA survey did the Commanders absolutely no favors and it’s something that could complicate matters.
In the meantime, Andrew Norwell faces a nervous wait. The former All-Pro linked back up with Ron Rivera last year but failed to put a consistent run of games together, so his status is also hanging by a thread heading into free agency.
Keeping Norwell around as a depth chart piece and locker room leader wouldn’t hurt. But the complications are obvious if Washington opts to start him in 2023.
If the Commanders want to legitimately maximize Bieniemy’s exceptional offensive mind and provide extra assurance for Sam Howell or someone else under center, upgrading the protection is beyond necessary. What this means for Norwell’s future is unclear, but a demotion could be coming.