Commanders News: Caleb Williams, sale race, draft picks, absurd trade touted
By Dean Jones
Are Commanders loading up for Caleb Williams?
While there is a slim chance the Washington Commanders select a quarterback in the 2023 NFL Draft, the smart money indicates they will move forward with Sam Howell and Jacoby Brissett as their duo next season. Something that could likely determine whether or not head coach Ron Rivera gets an extended stay under new ownership.
Rivera probably knows he’s betting his job on Howell or Brissett depending on which signal-caller wins their training camp competition. However, a recent claim from Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated suggests Washington is forming a grander plan for football’s most prestigious position.
The respected insider stated those around the league believe that the Commanders could stockpile picks during the draft in readiness for a bold surge up the 2024 pecking order. The target? Heisman Trophy winner and current USC sensation Caleb Williams.
"“I, and most teams, would be very surprised if the Commanders took a quarterback, to the point where some have speculated the team could move capital into 2024 to ready for a run then at D.C.-area native (Caleb) Williams. You probably have to be the worst team in the league to get him, because whoever that team is probably won’t trade his rights away.”"
As Breer stated, the Commanders would have to be terrible to have a shot at Williams, who is a self-professed Commanders fan. And looking at the current roster, there is almost no chance Washington is bad enough to land the No. 1 overall selection.
Williams is a phenomenal prospect, so no team that is picking first would entertain a trade if it meant changing their fortunes under center. And teams picking first tend to have a major quarterback complication more often than not.