Commanders 7-round 2023 NFL mock draft: BPA edition

Commanders draft Dorian Thompson‐Robinson

• Quarterback | UCLA Bruins

The Washington Commanders are making a big call by moving forward in 2023 with Sam Howell and Jacoby Brissett as their quarterback options. Going after Lamar Jackson has obvious benefits, but head coach Ron Rivera stated that they never truly contemplated a pursuit of the former NFL MVP due to the compensation and financial outlay.

This is a gamble that will define Rivera’s tenure in Washington. And aside from lucking into Cam Newton on the Carolina Panthers, his decision-making at football’s most pivotal position hasn’t exactly been world-beating throughout his coaching career.

There’s no chance Washington is going to take a quarterback early in the draft. Hendon Hooker is the wildcard, but many analysts are now projecting the Tennessee product to be a late first-round selection or at worst, become an early second-round pick.

There’s no harm in the Commanders spending their final draft pick on a development project with nice athletic measurables. This wouldn’t have any impact on the upcoming quarterback battle between Brissett and Howell whatsoever.

Dorian Thompson-Robinson might never end up being an NFL starter at the position. But he could be of use as a gadget option thanks to his running ability out of the backfield and might end up being a surprise most teams don’t see coming under Eric Bieniemy.