What pressing priorities remain for the Washington Commanders now that their 2023 NFL Draft engagements are firmly in the rearview mirror?
Even though the 2023 NFL Draft has concluded, there are still some important decisions remaining for the Washington Commanders before competitive action begins. The ownership saga continues to be a distraction until further notice, which could hinder the team's ability to focus fully on football unless it comes to a successful resolution.
The Commanders received mixed reviews for their draft class, which focused on cornerback, the offensive line, and edge rusher above all else. Some intriguing undrafted free agents were also acquired, but whether any can force their way onto the 53-man roster remains to be seen.
Things aren't going to get easier from a pressure standpoint for Ron Rivera once Josh Harris' group completes their purchase. Therefore, the primary objective is and has always been putting the players in the best possible position to thrive next season - the fourth of his tenure.
With that being said, here are three pressing priorities for Washington after the 2023 NFL Draft.
Pressing Priority No. 1
Commanders must finalize their starting OL
Ron Rivera has been keen to stress the importance of extra competition across the board this offseason. While that brings obvious benefits, the sooner those in power finalize their starting offensive line, the better their chances will be next season.
The Washington Commanders struggled to find any sort of consistency in 2022, which became a weak link almost from start to finish. Rivera loves position versatility in his linemen, but with only Charles Leno Jr. cemented as a starter currently, some big decisions need to be made quickly.
Anything less could bring complications from a chemistry standpoint. Something that would be less than ideal and could also have a detrimental impact on Sam Howell's fortunes under center along the way.
Commanders must extend Kamren Curl
Although a change in ownership has restricted Ron Rivera's ability to make big splashes in free agency this offseason, it's something the head coach is reluctant to do based on his first few years with the Washington Commanders in any case. The head coach has long adopted the draft-and-develop approach to roster building, rewarding those that establish themselves and prove their worth no matter which round they were chosen.
Now that the next batch of college recruits has been acquired, attention turns to some potential contract extensions. Sitting at the top of the list is Kamren Curl, who is widely regarded as one of the league's most promising young safeties after a standout start to his career.
Curl wasted no time in firmly establishing himself in the lineup despite arriving as a seventh-round pick out of Arkansas. His hard-hitting approach, natural instincts, and tireless work ethic have made him a fan favorite and if the Commanders had any sense, working out a new deal before the season should be strongly considered.
His body of work over the last three years dictates this is a wise investment. It might be more difficult than normal considering the escrow needed for deals such as this and no owner to confirm it one way or another, but keeping Curl at all costs is absolutely critical for sustainable success long-term.
There's nothing to suggest this is going to be a complicated process. Curl deserves every cent coming his way and the risk involved with such a big financial commitment is minimal based on the player's current trajectory.
Commanders must clear cap space
Considering the Washington Commanders need around $8.5 million to sign their 2023 NFL Draft class, it's clear more sacrifices are coming. The franchise currently has $2.43 million at its disposal, which leaves Ron Rivera working with one hand tied behind his back in terms of recruitment and retention.
This is a sorry state of affairs, especially considering the Commanders aren't paying a franchise quarterback top dollar. One would expect around $15 million is needed to sign their draftees, perhaps pick up another veteran that can contribute immediately, and leave some cash for any in-season moves should they wish.
There are some ways Washington can get their cap number down. Restructuring Jonathan Allen's deal saves $8.49 million, with the duo of center Chase Roullier ($8.37 million) and cornerback Kendall Fuller ($8.5 million) looking like potential post-June 1 cut candidates given the savings involved.
Loosening the pursestrings is almost guaranteed. It's how the Commanders approach this that will determine whether or not they'll be successful next season.
Some look more obvious than others. But either way, the Commanders must make more financial resources available to sign their NFL Draft class if nothing else.