3 critical observations ahead of the Commanders 2023 NFL Draft

Commanders sale raises the stakes

One distraction has been prevalent across the Washington Commanders’ offseason above all else. That is, of course, the impending sale of the franchise by Dan Snyder.

After months of speculation, we’re finally getting somewhere. The ownership group led by Josh Harris is in the process of tweaking their paperwork before a $6.05 billion agreement gets the green light, which could happen in the coming weeks depending on how things play out in the meantime.

Ron Rivera has been eager to focus on football in the face of constant questions. However, this landmark change only raises the stakes for all involved currently during the 2023 NFL Draft.

The Commanders have no margin for error next season. It’s the postseason or bust within a highly-competitive NFC East and if the new owners aren’t convinced, they won’t hesitate to hit the reset button.

This pressure is nothing new to Rivera, whose seat would have been pretty hot even if the sale wasn’t imminent anyway. He’s worked on the premise of avoiding desperation and sticking to his original plan throughout the preparation period, but there is now an added sense of urgency to nail the draft and put Washington in a better position to thrive.

Otherwise, it will likely be Rivera’s final draft process as the Commanders’ head coach.