The Washington Commanders laid their cards on the table with the signing of tight end Chig Okonkwo. They made a decent financial commitment to the free agent, which suggests new offensive coordinator David Blough sees a big role for the player within his schematic concepts.
And during his introductory press conference, Okonkwo spilled the tea on what sort of offense Blough could be running in Washington.
The Commanders needed more explosiveness in the tight end room. Okonkwo provides precisely that, signing a three-year, $30 million deal. He was arguably the best tight end option on the market, and general manager Adam Peters struck with conviction to get him into the franchise.
Chig Okonkwo outlines precisely how Commanders will maximize his skill set
Okonkwo probably had other offers, but sitting down with Blough for his vision tipped the scales in Washington's favor. The former Maryland standout provided more details, which centered on spacing, exploiting mismatches, and maximizing his threat to break off big yards after the catch.
"He's already shown me that. He's shown me clips of other places he's been, like Detroit. Just watching all of those clips, watching the offense that they're trying to bring over here, and the way I see myself fitting in, is exactly the role he showed me. Just watching guys with so much space, and just being able to use my skill set to my advantage. Use my speed, my quickness. Actually run real routes on the field and help the quarterback. I can get the ball anywhere on the field and make something happen."
This only adds to the intrigue. Not only regarding Okonkwo's arrival, but also regarding the innovative concepts Blough wants to implement in Washington.
Blough may be a rookie NFL play-caller with minimal coaching experience, but he's been around some shrewd offensive minds during his time as a player. Specifically, according to Okonkwo, he's been focused on how the Detroit Lions deployed their tight ends when Ben Johnson called plays. Zach Ertz was more of a possession option, and a good one, during his two seasons in Washington. Having someone with this sort of athleticism and dynamism should open things up considerably.
More importantly, Okonkwo is ascending.
Much has been made about his lack of consistency as a blocker, but the Commanders have John Bates and Ben Sinnott for that. His job will be as a pure pass-catcher with the versatility to line up almost anywhere. And if Blough's grand plan can scheme him open, a massive first year won't be too far behind.
Okonkwo's best years are ahead. And based on his comments, Blough has the plan in place to take his game to even greater heights.