Commanders 7-round 2023 NFL mock draft: New era edition

Commanders draft Joey Porter Jr.

• Cornerback | Penn State Nittany Lions

While there will be a temptation to make a flashy move to mark the arrival of new ownership, the Washington Commanders would be wise not to ignore some key needs on their roster. Most notably, improving the offensive line and finding a potential shutdown cornerback to take this franchise forward.

Anything else could bring some serious complications when competitive games begin. If Joey Porter Jr. was available for the Commanders at No. 16 overall, it could prove too tempting to ignore.

Porter has the pedigree and athletic attributes needed to emerge as a star in no time. He looks every bit like a capable cornerback presence that can make an immediate difference, which is exactly what the Commanders need to go alongside Kendall Fuller, Benjamin St-Juste, and the recently acquired Cameron Dantzler Sr.

The former Penn State star has the tools to shine in any scheme. Porter is immensely productive in press coverage, has the football IQ to become dominant in zone systems, and also boasts enough physicality to assist against the run for good measure.

This is a top-end cornerback class that Washington must take advantage of. Others will be on the shortlist, but nobody should complain too much if Porter is the guy.