3 winners (and 2 losers) from the Commanders 2024 NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Loser No. 2
Cole Turner - Commanders TE
There was some speculation surrounding what the Washington Commanders might have planned for the tight end position during the 2024 NFL Draft. Logan Thomas became a salary-cap casualty as expected earlier this offseason. Zach Ertz was brought in as a short-term replacement, but just how much he'll be able to contribute after barely featuring over the second half of 2023 remains to be seen.
This left the Commanders assessing what others on the roster could potentially do for long-term purposes heading into the draft. We got a clearer indication of what general manager Adam Peters thought of the roster during free agency - something that continued throughout the college selection process.
When the Commanders took Ben Sinnott out of Kansas State, it raised a few eyebrows. Peters stated he sees similar qualities in what Georgie Kittle possessed coming out of Iowa. If nurtured correctly, hopes are high that the second-round pick can become a complete package capable of impacting the game in all phases.
Sinnot is a smooth route-runner with assured, strong hands. He's got enough agility and speed to make his presence felt after the catch and is a willing blocker either in-line or at the second level. His stock soared throughout pre-draft assessments, so this could be another shrewd piece of business by the Commanders if the player keeps progressing.
Unfortunately, this is also a damning indictment of how the Commanders perceive Cole Turner's potential.
Many expected the former Nevada stud to have more involvement last season after impressing throughout the team's training camp. This didn't come to fruition for one reason or another. Much like the situation with Phidarian Mathis, the new regime isn't going to sit on their hands if they feel like an upgrade can be found.
All signs point to Ertz and Sinnott being the starting tight-end tandem. John Bates is the blocking specialist, so Turner and Armani Rogers are fighting for the fourth spot if that's the number Peters takes onto his 53-man roster.