Grading every Commanders pick from the 2023 NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Commanders drafted Braeden Daniels
- Offensive Line | Utah Utes
- Round No. 4 (Pick No. 118)
The Washington Commanders took two defensive backs to open the 2023 NFL Draft. After that, the primary focus shifted towards finding athletic young offensive linemen capable of bolstering depth or winning starting jobs.
One thing that Ron Rivera values above most other traits in this area of the field is position versatility. Something Braeden Daniels has in abundance despite his lack of prototypical height to play as an NFL edge protector.
While Daniels played the majority of his snaps at Utah as an offensive tackle, his frame indicates a switch to the interior once he gets to the Commanders. The prospect is technically sound with the footwork needed to mirror oncoming rushers, which went a long way to not allowing a single sack on the blindside in 2022.
The Commanders were right to see Daniels as a development project that can be molded into a potentially productive performer. His progress in college dictates positive reactions to coaching, which was particularly eye-catching where hand placement and snap timing were concerned.
Draft Grade: B+
While Daniels’ fundamental strength is a concern, the scope for further growth is evident. And if he ends up becoming a starter, this could be another NFL Draft steal for the Commanders when it’s all said and done.