4 edge rushers the Commanders could select in the 2023 NFL Draft

Which edge rushers could the Washington Commanders potentially select during what promises to be a fascinating 2023 NFL Draft for the franchise?

While finding another productive edge rusher might not be high on the list of draft priorities, the Washington Commanders must start thinking of contingency plans ahead of some important upcoming decisions. Specifically, the contract situations surrounding Chase Young and Montez Sweat.

The Commanders must decide whether or not to pick up Young’s fifth-year option before next month’s deadline. Sweat is also entering a contract year, so the chances of both getting lucrative extensions is uncertain considering the money already tied up in the defensive tackle duo of Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen.

Washington also has some health worries where Young is concerned. Efe Obada is a capable rotational presence that can step up, but those in power would be wise to examine the latest batch of college recruits for another option if the right opportunity comes along.

With this in mind, here are four edge rushers the Commanders could select during the 2023 NFL Draft.

Edge Rusher No. 1

Commanders could draft Nolan Smith

It would be a surprise to see the Washington Commanders take an edge rusher at No. 16 overall given their needs elsewhere. Nevertheless, Nolan Smith represents a prospect of immense promise that could slot into the starting lineup immediately.

Smith suffered some injury complications last season, which is a concern. However, the former Georgia standout is explosive, gets incredible bend around the edge, and boasts the closing speed necessary to reach the contact point quickly.

Much will depend on which players are available to the Commanders and whether trading back is an option. But someone with Smith’s pedigree and upside cannot be dismissed entirely.