The Washington Commanders have some big decisions to make at wide receiver during the offseason. There is a long way to go and plenty of football left before general manager Adam Peters gets to that point, but going the draft route seems like a viable solution.
And even though the Commanders won't be picking high enough to land Ohio State phenom Jeremiah Smith, another projected first-round pick could be a much more realistic option.
Indiana Hoosiers wideout Charlie Becker continues to take college football by storm. With quarterback Fernando Mendoza not throwing him the ball this season, a regression was expected. Instead, the prospect is showing just how special he is.
Commanders should take a keen interest in Charlie Becker pre-draft
Becker already has 53 catches for 950 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns this season, and Indiana looks like a lock to make the college football playoffs again. He's averaging 17.9 yards per reception, taking on the alpha mantle after Omar Cooper Jr. left for the NFL.
His route running, ball-tracking, and ability to make tough catches in big moments are exactly what the Commanders want. Becker's separation skills are elite at the college level, and they should transition easily to the pro ranks.
And given his strong character and obvious athleticism, the Commanders could have him high on their shortlist.
Four-time Pro Bowl receiver Stefon Diggs is playing well. Even so, the prolific veteran is only on a one-year deal and isn't getting any younger.
Dyami Brown is out of contract, as are Van Jefferson Jr. and Treylon Burks. Luke McCaffrey and Jaylin Lane carved out decent roles on special teams. However, it doesn't seem likely they will ever become focal points on the offensive rotation.
Then, there's Terry McLaurin.
Charlie Becker could be Commanders' perfect Terry McLaurin replacement
McLaurin sustained a torn patellar tendon against the San Francisco 49ers. This put him on season-ending injured reserve, and he might be out even longer.
This places the Commanders in a bind, with McLaurin's cap number set to soar. Peters treats this franchise like a business, and even though the wideout is beloved by everyone, he looks like a prime salary-cap sacrifice next spring.
If this scenario comes to fruition, the Commanders' wide receiver need becomes arguably their top priority.
Only third-round rookie Antonio Williams could be considered a long-term piece. That has to change, and quarterback Jayden Daniels needs a legitimate WR1 to build chemistry with if McLaurin departs.
Becker would be a great choice. But the Commanders might not get the opportunity to select him when push comes to shove.
Washington hasn't given up hope of winning the NFC East and making the playoffs. They are 3-5-1, but they will win more games. That could eventually drop them out of the top 10, where most draft experts project Becker to land.
If this happens, the Commanders would need to trade up. Peters doesn't have that luxury, so it'll be an anxious wait if Washington identifies Becker as its primary target.
And based on his exceptional talent and production this season, that's a realistic possibility.
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