3 things that could happen before the Commanders pick at No. 16
By Dean Jones
Top-three tackles could be off the board for Commanders
One big priority for the Washington Commanders is finding a franchise left tackle. Their offensive line investment in free agency has focused primarily on the right-hand side, which is the biggest indicator yet that a premier blindside protector could be their top choice if the right prospect is available at No. 16 overall.
Good left tackles are hard to find. Last year’s draft had three outstanding prospects in Ikem Ekwonu, Charles Cross, and Evan Neal, who all went in the top 10 and made their presence felt immediately as rookies.
A similar situation could happen in front of the Commanders this time around. Peter Skoronski, Paris Johnson Jr., and Broderick Jones are the three best edge protectors in this year’s class, and looking at the teams ahead of Washington, at least four could use help at the offensive tackle spot.
Obviously, the anticipated quarterback run atop the draft narrows down the list. It would also be a huge surprise if Will Anderson Jr. and Jalen Carter weren’t picked in the top 10 despite the latter’s recent legal issues.
The Commanders and Ron Rivera won’t want to be caught short. But there are some other intriguing options in the event all three aforementioned individuals are off the board by No. 16 overall.