Commanders 2023 NFL Draft scouting report: Paris Johnson Jr.

How would Paris Johnson Jr. fit on the Commanders?

• Week 1 starter, potential Pro Bowler

There’s no doubt Paris Johnson Jr. would be an instant upgrade on anything the Washington Commanders have at left tackle, including Charles Leno Jr. So if the player ended up falling to No. 16 overall, this looks like a relatively straightforward decision for those within the organization.

Whether Johnson makes it this far down the pecking order is doubtful. After the run on quarterbacks expected in the top five or six picks, there are numerous teams that need tackle assistance before Washington goes on the clock.

Looking at the current order, it would be a surprise if Johnson made it past the Chicago Bears at No. 9 overall right now. Although nobody could say with any great certainty depending on how the board plays out in front of them.

Adding Johnson to an offensive line that also includes Nick Gates and Andrew Wylie could be the missing link. If the Commanders get another interior presence at some stage during the draft, it gives this offense another shot in the arm under the expert guidance of Eric Bieniemy.

Johnson would be the icing on the cake, there’s no doubt about that whatsoever. He’s the best-left tackle in this year’s class – and it’s not particularly close – which makes him lasting until No. 16 overall almost impossible in the grand scheme of things.