4 draft prospects that might fall to the Commanders at No. 16 overall
By Dean Jones
Commanders could draft Paris Johnson Jr.
- Offensive Tackle | Ohio State Buckeyes
If everything stood firm right now, the Washington Commanders would have Charles Leno Jr. and Andrew Wylie as their starting tackle tandem in 2023. Not the worst pairing in the world, which could be productive given Eric Bieniemy’s presence and a system that relies on getting the football out quickly.
With that being said, the Commanders would be foolish to pass up the opportunity of selecting a potential franchise edge protector via the draft. If Paris Johnson Jr. fell into their laps at No. 16 overall, this could be the answer to Washington’s long-term prayers on the blindside.
Many expect Johnson to be a top-10 selection, but Mel Kiper Jr.’s latest mock had the former Ohio State stud dropping all the way to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at No. 19 overall. It would be hard to pass up from the Commanders’ standpoint, although it will be dependent on what other prospects are available when they go on the clock.
Johnson is a former five-star high school recruit who thrived with the Buckeyes in 2022 when switched to the tackle position. His football IQ is extremely high, which compliments his improving technique and ferocious willingness to finish off plays with aggressive conviction.
The prospect’s agility enables him to get out of the move on pulls and impact proceedings at the second level. There is some development needed from a pass-blocking standpoint, but Johnson’s upside is enormous and is a risk worth taking if Washington gets the chance.