4 prospects the Commanders must avoid during 2023 NFL Draft

Commanders must avoid Hendon Hooker

• Quarterback | Tennessee Volunteers

Despite speculation linking the Washington Commanders with a bold move for quarterback Lamar Jackson, this was quickly shot down by Ron Rivera as something the team never seriously considered. Something that leaves the organization banking on Jacoby Brissett or Sam Howell providing better consistency depending on who wins the starting job this summer.

This is a big-time gamble from Rivera considering his suspect quarterback evaluation throughout his career. And with new ownership coming into the fold before competitive games begin, he’s betting his job on Howell and Brissett.

Taking a quarterback during the 2023 NFL Draft could be an option if the right opportunity presents itself. Someone like Hendon Hooker could be available at No. 47 overall based on most projections, with Eric Bieniemy seeing the prospect’s recovery from a serious knee injury for himself at Tennessee’s pro day last week.

Hooker is a gifted thrower and natural leader, which are traits always coveted by NFL teams at the quarterback position. However, the ACL injury, adjustment to a pro-style offense, and the fact he’s 25 years old make this a significant risk high up the draft.

It’s unlikely the former Tennessee star makes it into the third round considering how desperate teams normally are with quarterback upgrades. Besides, the Commanders have made their bed with Howell and Brissett, which is going to come with consequences for good or bad.