Commanders make surprising choices in PFN’s three-round mock draft

The Washington Commanders made some strange selections in a recent 2023 NFL mock draft published by Pro Football Network. 

Speculation is rampant as the NFL Draft draws closer. For the Washington Commanders, it’s a chance to potentially find eight players capable of filling various roles with the selections at their disposal.

These will vary from immediate contributors to special teamers and everything in between. Drafting and developing have been the hallmark of Ron Rivera’s approach since becoming head coach, which is unlikely to alter despite some increased urgency once the Commanders’ sale by Dan Snyder is officially confirmed.

Money is incredibly tight, which makes hitting on the majority of their draft picks even more vital for Washington. But a recent mock draft from Ian Valentino of Pro Football Network saw the Commanders make some strange choices and ignore key positions along the way.

Commanders draft Brian Branch in Pro Football Network’s mock

Valentino mocked former Alabama standout Brian Branch to Washington at No. 16 overall. While he’s a good defensive back, the explanation given was pretty short-sighted when one considers the presence of Darrick Forrest as a productive safety alongside Kamren Curl.

"“The board falls nicely for the Washington Commanders here, as they have needs throughout their secondary. With the defense trending toward multiple safety looks and Bobby McCain allowed to depart, adding another captain-level presence next to Kamren Curl would be beneficial. Alabama’s Brian Branch can do it all, including lining up in deep coverage or the slot.”"

Forrest and Curl were among the league’s best young safety tandems in 2022. Percy Butler is a solid rotational piece that could progress further entering Year 2 of his professional career, so taking Branch as a slot cover guy when better options should be available seems strange all things considered.

This was followed by tight end Darnell Washington at No. 47 overall in Valentino’s mock. While it provides hope for long-term prosperity at the position, it doesn’t reflect the need for cornerback assistance and finding an offensive lineman capable of starting right away.

"“Darnell Washington is among my favorite prospects in the draft, given his rare size and explosiveness. He can quickly find a role for Washington as a blocker but also develop into Logan Thomas’ replacement.”"

Washington has all the athletic intangibles needed to become a nightmare for opposing defensive coordinators. Given how he played a secondary role behind Brock Bowers, it’s hard to figure out just how good he can become in a prominent No. 1 role – but the level of intrigue alone is enough to make him a top-50 selection when the all-important draft weekend arrives.

Rounding off the picks in Valentino’s mock draft was Isaiah McGuire, an edge-rushing menace with 17 sacks and 32.5 tackles for loss throughout his four-year stint at Missouri. Again, this wouldn’t be the Commanders’ biggest need, but contingency plans must be put in place with contract extensions for Montez Sweat and Chase Young on the immediate horizon.

The Commanders already have a substantial amount committed to defensive tackles Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen. Considering the money Sweat and Young might command with strong seasons in 2023, keeping both appears unrealistic in the grand scheme of things.

Nobody knows for sure what the Commanders are going to do. But this would represent one of the strangest ways to approach the opening three rounds if Valentino’s mock became reality.