Commanders News: Eric Bieniemy, Sam Howell, Devon Witherspoon and more
By Dean Jones
Potential Commanders’ CB target lights up his pro day
It’s no secret that the Washington Commanders are looking to draft a cornerback early in the 2023 NFL Draft. If the right prospect falls into their laps at No. 16 overall, there’s a high chance they’re brought into the ranks.
One prospect that’s under consideration did his chances no harm at all after a phenomenal display of athleticism at Illinois’ pro day this week. Devon Witherspoon is arguably the best defensive back entering the NFL this year and wowed numerous league personnel in attendance with speed, strength, and explosiveness in equal measure.
The Commanders had a high-end front office figure watching him in the flesh. Eric Stokes, who is the team’s senior director of player personnel, was the man responsible for running the rule over Witherspoon, but whether he’ll be around by the mid-first-round is debatable at this juncture.
Witherspoon’s instincts, physicality, and aggressive approach make him a potential shutdown option with a smooth transition to the pros. His exceptional contribution against the run only increases how much he’ll be coveted when the big night arrives.
If the Commanders got lucky and Witherspoon was still on the board, it’s a hard proposition to turn down. Especially considering their desperate need to find a capable figure to put alongside Kendall Fuller, Benjamin St-Juste, and the recently acquired Cameron Dantzler Sr.