Commanders select generational prospect in early 2024 NFL mock draft

Analysts are already speculating which prospects teams could take during the 2024 NFL Daft, with the Washington Commanders linked to a generational playmaker.

We are just a few short days removed from the 2023 NFL Draft. However, that hasn’t stopped media outlets from speculating which prospects could land where when next year’s selection process gets underway.

The Washington Commanders could look completely different from an infrastructure standpoint by then. Josh Harris and his ownership group’s quest to purchase the franchise looks on track, which could lead to landmark changes across the board if they feel like things aren’t progressing as expected under the current regime.

There is enormous pressure on Ron Rivera next season. If it doesn’t go right and his decision to move forward with quarterback Sam Howell fails to produce the progress needed, then this is likely to be his last campaign as Commanders head coach.

Commanders select Brock Bowers in 2024 mock draft

What this could mean for Washington’s draft plans in 2024 is anyone’s guess. But Charlie Campbell of WaterFootball.com recently mocked a generational prospect to the Commanders at No. 8 overall in the form of Brock Bowers.

"“(Brock) Bowers was a freshman sensation for the Bulldogs in 2021 and was a huge receiving weapon in helping them win their first National Championship since 1980. Immediately, Bowers (6-4, 230) was a mismatch threat with excellent speed, athleticism, and run-after-the-catch ability. In 2021, Bowers recorded 56 receptions for 882 yards and 13 touchdowns. He totaled 63 receptions in 2022 for 942 yards and seven touchdowns. The Bulldogs have had other good young talent at tight end and wide receiver, so Bowers doesn’t see everything funneled his way, as they spread the ball around, but Bowers is definitely a special prospect for the NFL.”"

If Howell shows enough to suggest something longer-term could be in the offing and the Commanders get the chance, Bowers would be an instant difference maker in this scenario. He is the best tight end in college football by a considerable margin and represents a mismatch nightmare that can line up anywhere on the field.

Bowers can do it all. He is a slick route-runner, has unbelievable ball skills, and is able to generate significant yards after the catch – something that could potentially make him a top-five selection next spring with further improvements.

With 119 receptions for 1,824 receiving yards and 20 touchdowns – together with two national championships – over his college career to date, Bowers is well on track for superstardom. This also happens to be an area of need for the Commanders despite the promise surrounding Cole Turner and Armani Rogers.

If the Commanders are picking at No. 8, it’s likely that things haven’t gone quite according to Rivera’s script. Therefore, any new regime might decide to begin by selecting a quarterback rather than a skill position player in this scenario.

Bowers could be the most talented overall prospect emerging from the college ranks next year. All the hype will be centered on Caleb Williams, but the Commanders have no chance of landing the USC product unless things spiral completely out of control.

As for Bowers, he has the scope to completely revolutionize the tight-end position. That might sound like a lofty expectation, but he truly is that special.

And if he landed in Washington, they’d have an immediate upgrade with All-Pro potential.