5 ways Commanders can avoid disaster during the 2024 NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Commanders must emerge with a top-tier LT
After releasing Charles Leno Jr. and doing very little to strengthen their offensive tackle options in free agency, the Washington Commanders must emerge from the 2024 NFL Draft with a top-tier edge protector. Anything less could jeopardize their new quarterback's chances of hitting the ground running.
This draft class is exceptionally deep across the offensive line, something that won't have gone unnoticed by Adam Peters. He'll have a few prospects on his shortlist in pursuit of finding Leno's replacement. Striking with conviction to get their desired target would be desirable depending on what opportunities present themselves.
The Commanders are loaded with capital. If Peters feels like it can benefit the franchise, trading back into the first round for one of their desired left tackles is something to consider. It'll mean giving up additional capital, but this represents a small price to pay considering the need to keep their rookie signal-caller upright during an important transition from college to the pros.
If the Commanders decide to wait, they have two second-round picks to solve this complication.
Commanders must not panic
One of the biggest failings among front offices around the league during the draft is composure. Many become too reactionary and panic when prospects begin falling off their board. Maintaining a sense of calm and professionalism is something Peters must install when the pivotal selection event begins.
This might be Peters' debut draft as a general manager, but he's no stranger to the high-pressured war room environment. The respected evaluator is experienced enough to trust his board, keep to the plan, and act with confidence when trade opportunities arise.
Washington has nine selections already - six in the top 100. This gives them plenty of options to manipulate the board as Peters sees fit. But remaining composed amid the chaos is the only way the Commanders are going to emerge with the correct pieces capable of contributing to their exciting new era.
Peters knows what he's doing. This isn't the same shoddy football operation of years past, so it's not hard to see why there's a growing level of confidence among the fanbase.