4 big offseason gambles that could pay off for Commanders in 2023
By Dean Jones
Commanders gambled on Nick Gates
It was essential for the Washington Commanders to strengthen their offensive line this offseason. Last season’s inept protection almost from start to finish dictated that anything else would be malpractice.
There wasn’t much money to go around. But the Commanders were wise to invest most of their spare resources in viable starters that should upgrade two positions in this critical area of the field.
Nick Gates decided to make the switch to Washington from the New York Giants. His production is good and the player’s leadership within the locker room cannot be disputed, but there is a health concern that cannot be overlooked when examining his potential contribution to the Commanders’ long-term.
The former Nebraska star suffered a gruesome leg injury – ironically against the Commanders – which took a significant time and seven surgeries to heal. Gates returned to the Giants lineup in 2022 and assisted in their memorable run into the playoffs, but any further complications will be nothing short of disastrous to Washington’s hopes of genuine improvement on their offensive line.
Hopefully, Gates can strengthen the knee further with a full offseason under his belt. If there are no more complications on the health front, this could be a tremendous bit of business by Ron Rivera and Martin Mayhew.