How will bombshell NFC East trades impact the Commanders in 2023?
By Dean Jones
Commanders have a big problem with Darren Waller
The New York Giants took a monumental leap forward during their first season under Brian Daboll in 2022. Reaching the postseason and securing a memorable road playoff win at the Minnesota Vikings was just the start, so acquiring Darren Waller was another strong declaration of their intent next time around.
Waller’s had his problems with injuries of late. But few would deny he isn’t one of the NFL’s best pass-catching tight ends when fit and firing on all cylinders.
Make no mistake, this is a big problem for the Washington Commanders. The Giants aren’t blessed with much quality at the wide receiver position, but having Waller represents a matchup nightmare unless the front office finds a big, physical cornerback to counteract this threat.
Despite having Cameron Dantzler Sr., Kendall Fuller, and Benjamin St-Juste, this doesn’t solve their newfound problem where Waller is concerned. And the team’s lack of coverage capabilities within their linebacking corps is another potential complication.
Thankfully, there are some exciting prospects from the college ranks that the Commanders could select in the first two rounds. This would give them a fighting chance of keeping Waller quiet.
Washington also has the prolific safety tandem of Kamren Curl and Darrick Forrest – two players who’ll be integral to stopping Waller from gaining yards after the catch. Even if this is something they could have done without.