Commanders News: Sam Howell, OT target, Ron Rivera and Martin Mayhew
By Dean Jones
Commanders have OT in their sights at No. 16?
Perhaps a more realistic avenue the Washington Commanders will pursue early in the 2023 NFL Draft centers on the offensive line. In particular, a prospect that could potentially become their franchise left tackle long-term.
This is something the Commanders have been devoid of since trading Trent Williams. Charles Leno Jr. is a serviceable blindside presence, but ignoring a tremendous-looking group of offensive tackles at the top end would be foolish looking at the current state of affairs.
According to Jordan Reid of ESPN, the Commanders have taken a shine to Dawand Jones throughout the pre-draft assessment process. Although it could be a reach at No. 16 overall, the up-and-coming analyst said it’s a definite possibility if there is an early run on tackle prospects.
"“The Commanders have studied the top offensive linemen in the class. Offensive tackle is a possibility in Round 1. Dawand Jones (Ohio State) is a name I keep hearing in connection with the team, which has done a lot of work on his evaluation. While the middle of Round 1 might seem high for Jones right now, don’t be surprised if he lands in that range.”"
Jones is a gargantuan tackle who is rapidly ascending. He didn’t allow a single sack in 2022 and although there’s some work to do from a technical standpoint, the physical profile indicates huge improvements could arrive with the right work ethic.
If the Commanders took Jones, it would raise a few eyebrows. But the reward could be substantial if he puts everything together.