4 key observations from Commanders HC Ron Rivera’s owners’ meeting presser
By Dean Jones
Commanders OL improvements
One of the biggest needs for the Washington Commanders heading into free agency was strengthening the offensive line. They didn’t have much spare cash to throw around, but a couple of relatively large investments arrived that can hopefully upgrade the protection when competitive action resumes.
Nick Gates will occupy one of the interior positions after leaving the New York Giants. Andrew Wylie looks set to start at right tackle after deciding to immediately reunite with Eric Bieniemy after their Super Bowl run on the Kansas City Chiefs in 2022.
Ron Rivera, via the Commanders’ website, declared his delighted with the new arrivals. Something the head coach hopes will increase competition and improve consistency when it’s time to get back down to business.
"“We made a concerted effort during free agency to go out and fortify the line. Add some depth to the line. Add some competition. We have some guys that are also position flex guys, so it’ll give us an opportunity to see the best places to have these guys and integrate them with the guys that are currently on the roster.”"
More is undoubtedly needed, which could arrive at some stage during the 2023 NFL Draft. Any further additions could also put the likes of Andrew Norwell and Chase Roullier on the chopping block, so it’ll be interesting to see how things play out in the coming weeks.