Grading every Commanders pick from the 2023 NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Commanders drafted Ricky Stromberg
- Offensive Line | Arkansas Razorbacks
After taking defensive backs over the opening two rounds, the calls to select an offensive lineman were deafening. Thankfully, this was also something recognized by the Washington Commanders, who spent the No. 97 overall selection on Ricky Stromberg after the prospect impressed those in power considerably throughout their assessments.
Stromberg wasn’t the flashiest pick, but it was a decent one all things considered. The former Arkansas stud is a strong pre-snap communicator with the sort of positional versatility Ron Rivera loves in every offensive lineman at his disposal.
While Stromberg spent the majority of his college career at the center position, one cannot dismiss the possibility of switching to guard depending on what the Commanders have planned with Nick Gates. There is also the return to health of Chase Roullier to consider, although he could be a post-June 1 cap casualty when push comes to shove.
The third-round pick has nice footwork and is technically sound in pass protection. Stromberg did have trouble when going up against the top-level SEC defensive linemen, but the tools are there to suggest he can force his way into the starting lineup sooner than anticipated.
Draft Grade: B
The Commanders came away from their meetings with Stromberg confident he can become an asset. Whether this happens immediately will be dependent on how he reacts to competing against a stout Washington defensive front daily at practice.