Which Washington Commanders’ news stories gave got people talking with so much drama enveloping the organization currently?
With every day that passes, more news and speculation continue to mount where the Washington Commanders are concerned. Many uncertainties surround the franchise currently, but everything should become a little clearer in the next month or two with prominent dates on the offseason calendar upcoming.
Among the latest headlines causing debate include another cornerback visit, a mock draft pick that looks like a major reach, a supposed deadline for the Commanders’ sale, and a hypothetical draft weekend trade involving defensive end Montez Sweat.
Let’s delve a little deeper into each story.
Commanders hosting another talented CB prospect
According to Aaron Wilson of Click2Houston, the Washington Commanders are bringing in talented cornerback D.J. Turner for a top-30 visit before the 2023 NFL Draft. The former Michigan star is expected to be a late first or early second-round pick, which doesn’t take him out of play entirely at No. 16 overall if those in power like what they hear from the player.
Turner is instinctive and athletic, but the one thing that stands out above all else is electrifying speed. Something the defensive back put on full display at the NFL Scouting Combine en route to a dazzling 4.26-second time in the 40-yard dash.
While others such as Devon Witherspoon, Joey Porter Jr., and Christian Gonzalez represent better options, there’s no guarantee any will be around when Washington goes on the clock. Therefore, examining possibilities a little further down the pecking order widens the team’s net ahead of the all-important selection process.
Commanders reach in Adam Rank’s mock draft
There are numerous ways the Washington Commanders can go at No. 16 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. Fortifying the offensive line remains high on the list of priorities, while taking advantage of a strong class of defensive backs is another realistic avenue the team could pursue.
A recent mock draft from Adam Rank of NFL.com came with the theme of what every team should do. Not what they’ll end up doing, but what the writer believes is the best course of action based on the talent available at the time.
Rank went with a reach for the Commanders in the form of Brian Branch. While the player could be of use – especially in coverage – he’s seen more of a slot presence when Washington is in desperate need of a true lockdown outside presence to remain competitive within the NFC East.
"“I know, this might seem like a reach to some, but hear me out. You signed Cameron Dantzler with the hope that he can return to the promising form he showed early on in Minnesota. Even if that ends up being the case, I’m going to continue hammering home a theme in this mock: You can’t have enough capable cover men. Branch is the kind of guy who can play slot corner, like he did at Alabama, and provide an instant impact. I know your fans will hate me for this, but it’s a good move.”"
This is all just hearsay and speculation right now. Some fierce debates rage daily on social media about what the right play is for Ron Rivera and his staff, but the only opinions that matter are those within the war room.
And say what you want about Marty Hurney, but the man knows first-round-caliber talent when he sees it.
Commanders sale deadline revealed?
After the Washington Commanders received two formal bids of $6 billion for the impending sale, it’s been notable silence – at least from Dan Snyder‘s perspective – ever since. While there is growing confidence the franchise will be sold sooner rather than later, the billionaire could be biding his time for a bigger offer – perhaps from Jeff Bezos.
However, time is of the essence for Bezos and Snyder. According to a recent report from A.J. Perez of Front Office Sports, other NFL owners have already set a deadline for something to get rubber-stamped.
The writer indicated that May 22 could be a date to circle in your calendars. This is in time for the next batch of NFL owners’ meetings, where they would like to vote on the winning bid.
"“Jeff Bezos hasn’t entered the bidding for the Washington Commanders, but the Amazon founder will be given every opportunity to do so. Sources told Front Office Sports that the current deadline for Commanders owner Dan Snyder to pick a winning bidder remains weeks — not days — away. Sources said the current target to select a bidder is ahead of the start of the next owners meetings on May 22 — a day before the Commanders start their voluntary offseason workouts, also known as organized team activities.”"
If the report is accurate, it gives Bezos a little extra time before making his play. Snyder will also want to leave things until the last minute before riding off into the sunset with an NFL-record offer signed and sealed.
This won’t be any great comfort to those who want something sorted quickly. But the destination is far more important than the journey in this particular situation.
Hypothetical trade for Commanders DE Montez Sweat
Although the Washington Commanders managed to tie down stud defensive tackle Daron Payne with minimal fuss this offseason, they have some important decisions on the immediate horizon regarding two pass-rushers the team invested heavily in.
Chase Young’s fifth-year option is due, which could go either way based on the player’s concerning injury history over the last two seasons. Montez Sweat is also heading into the final year of his deal and could command megabucks with another outstanding campaign of elite-level production.
Keeping everyone happy is almost impossible. And in a recent feature from The Bleacher Report, a potential trade involving Sweat during the 2023 NFL Draft was put forward that would send him to the Chicago Bears for picks No. 53 and No. 148.
"“If the Commanders are willing to part with Sweat, they could acquire numerous picks for this year’s draft. And the Bears, who have a ton of draft capital, could be a great trade partner, considering they need to upgrade their defensive line. Of course, Sweat is likely to continue to be an impact player for Washington should it opt to keep him. But if it’s getting good offers, it may be smart to at least consider them.”"
This would not go down well. At all. So it’s something the Commanders should avoid at all costs if they want to stand any chance of making the playoffs next season.
Young’s dependability is a major concern. Therefore, trading their one reliable dominant edge presence is absolutely out of the question.