Commanders could have drafted Trey McBride
The Washington Commanders have been searching for a consistent pass-catching tight end for some time. Logan Thomas was solid if not spectacular before his release this year. Veteran Zach Ertz emerged as a tremendous asset but isn't getting any younger.
Ben Sinnott, who was taken No. 53 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, remains an unknown quantity despite flashing promise. It remains to be seen whether he's got enough to become the complete package, but Trey McBride was there for the taking before Ron Rivera went with Phidarian Mathis instead.
McBride was eased in gradually behind Ertz as a rookie. When he finally got an opportunity to start frequently, the former Colorado State star flourished.
He's emerged as one of the league's most prolific pass-catching tight ends this season, going over 1,000 receiving yards and finally getting his first touchdown this weekend against the Los Angeles Rams. McBride's brought in 64 percent of his targets and is a trusted outlet for Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray. And he's only just beginning.
This would have been a home-run hit by the Commanders.
Commanders could have drafted Nik Bonitto
Generating pressure was a difficult task for the Commanders throughout almost the entirety of Ron Rivera's head coaching tenure. Things look a little more promising of late, but it would be a surprise if Washington didn't address this need for another accomplished edge-rushing performer at some stage during the offseason.
No team can ever have enough good pass-rushers. If the Commanders had gone with Nik Bonitto over Phidarian Mathis at No. 47 overall in 2022, they'd have a much more dynamic presence to call upon.
Much like the situation with Trey McBride in Arizona, the Denver Broncos took things slowly with Bonitto before unleashing him in Year 2 of his professional career. He gained 8.5 sacks last time out and took his game to completely different heights during the current campaign.
Bonitto's been a revelation this season, gaining 11.5 sacks, 22 quarterback hits, and 32 pressures as a result of his exceptional efforts. He's firmly in Pro Bowl consideration and looks like a franchise cornerstone piece for Denver to build around long-term.
The Commanders could use someone like that right now. Although the likes of Dante Fowler Jr., Dorance Armstrong Jr., and Frankie Luvu are providing sufficient production for now.
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