3 sparks that could ignite the Commanders offense in 2024

Commanders committee RB approach

If the Washington Commanders can bring in one last starting-caliber offensive lineman to compete for the right tackle position with Andrew Wylie - and potentially take it from him - the franchise could find themselves in a position to have one of the better-rushing attacks in the league. With Jayden Daniels, Austin Ekeler, Brian Robinson Jr., and Chris Rodriguez Jr., the Commanders have more than enough firepower to make serious noise on the ground.

The signing of Ekeler should not make Commanders fans forget about the youth and potential that Rodriguez has to offer. He averaged almost five yards per carry on 51 attempts during his rookie season. Not bad for an unheralded sixth-round selection.

With all three running backs being capable pass-catchers, offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury could design a variety of packages that keep two backfield threats on the field on many downs. Combined with the running threat that Daniels brings to the table, defenses would have no way of knowing what is unfolding in front of them.

To question whether the Commanders would pass or run the ball is one thing. But to question which of the three backs would be the runner is a whole other set of problems. Ekeler and Robinson gained over 2,000 rushing yards combined along with 15 touchdowns in 2023. That's going to be a problem if used correctly.

This committee may seem underwhelming to many. But after a second look, seeing the experience of Ekeler and the youth of Washington's other backs, the Commanders' run game could take a lot of people by surprise.

Expect plenty of end-around plays, runs off tackles, and getting to the edge. But if the Commanders can also run the ball up the middle, the entire offense would be wide-open. This would help Daniels enormously throughout his early transition to the professional ranks.