4 interior offensive linemen Commanders could select in 2023 NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Commanders could draft Steve Avila
Another with the versatility to play multiple positions on the offensive line, Steve Avila is someone that the Washington Commanders have shown an interest in throughout their pre-draft evaluations. But the franchise isn’t alone in that regard after the player’s sensational 2022 season.
Avila saved his best for last, becoming a formidable cog in TCU’s memorable run to the college football national championship game. This was thanks to outstanding consistency and a rapid emergence into one of the most inspiring leaders around.
The prospect is extremely explosive and athletic for a man his size. Avila also does a masterful job of anchoring his stance, which allows the lineman to cope with bull rushes and shift opposing defenders where he wants them to go.
Once Avila latches on with heavy hands, it’s over. Only the elite defensive tackle prospects got the better of him in college, which was primarily down to a lack of speed and lateral movement becoming his undoing.
Just how easily this can be coached out of Avila remains to be seen. But it’s not hard to see why the Commanders and others around the league are taking a closer look.
If they are especially fond of the player, then Avila might be available for Washington at No. 47 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft.