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

Commanders draft Tyjae Spears

• Running Back | Tulane Green Wave

Eric Bieniemy will be eager for the Washington Commanders to acquire more firepower during the 2023 NFL Draft. There are a number of gifted playmakers at the offensive coordinator’s disposal already, so a few new additions could result in major improvements providing either Sam Howell or Jacoby Brissett live up to their end of the bargain under center.

Despite the presence of Brian Robinson Jr. and Antonio Gibson at the running back spot, the release of J.D. McKissic leaves the Commanders short of a third option unless Jaret Patterson makes significant strides. If Tyjae Spears is available in the mid-rounds, it’s a luxury the Commanders could afford after filling key needs higher up the pecking order.

There’s no end to the ways Bieniemy could use a dynamic individual like Spears within his creative system. The former Tulane stud is productive, elusive, and has the sort of burst capable of taking it to the house on any given down.

Another outstanding area of Spears’ game that could be a huge asset is as a pass-catcher out of the backfield. The prospect is extremely sharp out of his cuts with soft hands that allow him to take the ball in stride before big gains after the catch.

While Spears’ slender frame wouldn’t be the best asset in pass protection, the Commanders have players to fill this role. Something that would allow the back to focus on the positives he could bring under Bieniemy’s guidance.