4 Tennessee prospects Eric Bieniemy could want for Commanders in 2023

Commanders could draft Hendon Hooker

The Washington Commanders appear content with their current quarterback options. Sam Howell will get a legitimate chance to become the team’s No. 1 after impressing during his only start as a rookie, but Ron Rivera stated there would be a real competition between the North Carolina product and free-agent signing Jacoby Brissett throughout camp.

That sounds positive, in theory. Even if Eric Bieniemy might have different ideas on what’s best for the franchise long-term.

All the focus throughout the pre-draft process has centered on the consensus top-four quarterback prospects. Especially since the Carolina Panthers made their daring surge up to No. 1 overall after striking a bombshell trade with the Chicago Bears.

However, there is another signal-caller going overlooked. Hendon Hooker might be coming off a serious knee injury, but he was on course to become a leading Heisman Trophy candidate in 2022 and all signs point to a full recovery ahead of his NFL opportunity.

Hooker can make every throw, is a phenomenal leader, and knows how to navigate the pocket. The injury red flag cannot be overlooked and the player is a little older than most college prospects, which isn’t much of a concern considering how long quarterbacks play these days.

Adjusting to a pro-style offense would be Hooker’s biggest remaining hurdle. He’s reportedly come across extremely well during interviews, which might be enough to convince Bieniemy and the Commanders to make their move if he’s still around at No. 47 overall.