3 things that could happen before the Commanders pick at No. 16

(Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports) Ron Rivera
(Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports) Ron Rivera /
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What could happen in front of the Washington Commanders before they go on the clock at No. 16 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft?

It’s hard to believe we are a little over one month away from the 2023 NFL Draft. The offseason is moving at a rapid rate and for the Washington Commanders, it’s one that represents the dawning of a new era once Dan Snyder sells the franchise as anticipated.

That’s of no concern to Ron Rivera and his staff right now. They are in the midst of forming a competitive roster after a decent enough start to free agency, which hasn’t broken the bank and is in keeping with the way business has been conducted with Snyder’s influence.

The Commanders are in a tricky spot at No. 16 overall. It doesn’t look likely they’ll trade up for any prospect, so those in power will be watching what transpires in front of them extremely closely before it’s their turn.

With this in mind, here are three things that could happen before the Commanders officially go on the clock at No. 16 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft.

Thing No. 1

Commanders
(John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports) C.J. Stroud /

Commanders will miss out on top-four QB prospects

If the Washington Commanders were hoping that one of the top-four quarterback prospects would be around by No. 16 overall, this notion is absolutely out of the question. One could make a case for C.J. Stroud, Bryce Young, Anthony Richardson, and Will Levis all going in the first six or even four picks once teams looking for a new signal-caller start panicking.

This is something that could work in the Commanders’ favor. Ron Rivera is moving forward with Sam Howell and Jacoby Brissett in 2023, so the quarterback rush could see one or two prospects of interest fall down the pecking order.