Carving out the Washington Commanders 2023 NFL Draft blueprint

Commanders must reinforce the OL by any means necessary

There is almost a total inverse along the offensive line. I don’t think the top of this year’s draft class is as good as the last several seasons have been. But oh my, there is depth.

This is especially true for interior linemen, but I see it at tackle as well. I’ve watched around 24 of these players by now and I can barely distinguish them. None really stand out as being great. But they are all very good. You can get a good lineman, especially a guard or center, deep into this draft.

The moves the Washington Commanders have made so far – bringing in two new free-agent linemen and re-upping Tyler Larsen – suggest they are well aware of this. I do not think they will take a lineman early. The exception would be if they really like a tackle who falls to them in Round 2.  A real tackle, that is. Not a college tackle who will move to guard in the NFL.

Before free agency began, I had the Commanders drafting at least two, and often three, offensive linemen. Now, I think they will take one or two. Perhaps one on Day 2 and another on Day 3.

The tight end position looks like a combination of cornerback and the offensive line. There are several blue-chippers atop the draft, but there is also very good depth that will run into the later rounds.

I would think that of all the offensive coordinators in the league, no one would want a productive tight end more than Eric Bienemy. But Washington has said they aren’t going to aggressively pursue the position.

However, if Dalton Kincaid lasts until their second-round pick, I don’t know how you can pass him up. I feel the same way about Sam LaPorta, who stands a better chance of being available.