The Washington Commanders are still firmly focused on making the postseason in 2024 under head coach Dan Quinn. That doesn't mean general manager Adam Peters and his staff won't be making offseason plans behind the scenes.
Peters has the Commanders in a strong position as the upcoming recruitment period approaches. The NFC East outfit has over $100 million in available salary-cap space and is reportedly a coveted destination for pending free agents. Washington also boasts seven draft selections to further strengthen the ranks.
Now that the Commanders have found their franchise quarterback, attention turns to surrounding Jayden Daniels with everything needed to thrive. Terry McLaurin is in All-Pro contention after a phenomenal campaign, but he cannot do it alone.
Commanders select Luther Burden III in Field Yates' mock draft
This was a topic discussed by Field Yates of ESPN in his latest mock draft. The analyst had the Commanders taking Luther Burden III, a gifted wide receiver who could be a superstar at the next level with further refinement.
"It has been a joy to watch the Jayden Daniels-Terry McLaurin duo thrive this season, but this offense needs more playmakers at receiver. I like the Burden fit; he's powerful and explosive, thriving with the ball in his hands as one of the best run-after-catch players in the class. Burden has had a modest 2024 season (676 receiving yards, six TDs) after a dominant 2023 campaign, but much of the downward shift can be attributed to a pedestrian Mizzou offense around him. Pairing McLaurin and Burden would be fun in D.C."Field Yates, ESPN
Burden was projected to be the best wide receiver in this class once upon a time. His down year by typically high standards in 2024 could mean someone gets a significant bargain a little further down the pecking order.
There isn't a lot Burden doesn't do well. He creates separation instantly through an explosive first step. His hands are assured and he's a dynamic force after the catch. The Missouri prospect is also a physical presence in the blocking game when the situation dictates.
The Commanders could use a versatile weapon such as this. Burden can line up almost anywhere along the line of scrimmage with minimal fuss. Getting the better of press coverage will be more challenging in the pros, but there's a lot to like about this fit and how it would help Daniels long term.
With Olamide Zaccheaus, Dyami Brown, and Noah Brown all out of contract next spring, the Commanders need to find reinforcements. Relying too much on McLaurin despite his elite-level talent isn't an option — not if Washington wants to maximize Daniels' rookie contract before a potentially record-breaking extension in the coming years.
Whether Burden makes it this far down the draft order is anyone's guess. But if the prolific pass-catcher is there for the taking when Washington goes on the clock, Peters should strongly consider the possibility.