4 offensive tackles Commanders can draft to replace Charles Leno Jr.
The time for a long-term plan has arrived...
By Dean Jones
Which offensive tackle prospects could the Washington Commanders draft to replace Charles Leno Jr. in 2024?
Something drastic needed to be done where the Washington Commanders offensive line was concerned this offseason. Ron Rivera's reliance on unheralded veterans and mid-level draft picks failed to reap rewards. He turned a once prolific unit into a complete farce, which played a significant factor in the offense's failings overall in 2023.
Adam Peters wasted no time in solidifying the group. Nick Allegretti and Tyler Biadscz arrived in free agency. Cornelius Lucas re-signed to be the team's swing tackle. Nick Gates was removed from the equation after one season. Veteran left tackle Charles Leno Jr. was also deemed surplus to requirements.
The Commanders haven't identified someone capable of manning the left tackle position from a starting capacity during free agency up to now. This is a tell-tale sign that general manager Adam Peters is going down the draft route with a bounty of high-end selections at his disposal.
With this in mind, here are four offensive tackles the Commanders could draft to replace Leno in 2024.
Comanders could draft Jordan Morgan
If the Washington Commanders select a quarterback at No. 2 overall as expected, then it's a waiting game to find their new left tackle. Fortunately for those in power, this is an exceptionally deep draft class for offensive linemen across the board. Something the new regime would be wise to capitalize on in pursuit of better fortunes.
The Commanders have reportedly shown an interest in Jordan Morgan throughout the pre-draft assessment process. The Arizona standout is supremely athletic, using his blend of size and short-area quickness to keep opposing rushers at arm's length. This is matched by fluid movement and strong reactionary skills to cope with counter-attacks.
Morgan's arm length is smaller than a typical NFL left tackle, but he more than compensates for this with athleticism and aggression in equal measure. Besides, this isn't the red flag it once was thanks to the likes of Rashawn Slater.
If he's available when the Commanders go on the clock in Round No. 2, this looks like a potential candidate to replace Charles Leno Jr.