6 free-agent quarterbacks the Commanders could sign in 2024
By Dean Jones
Commanders could sign Tyrod Taylor
Whether the Washington Commanders pursue a veteran quarterback in free agency comes down to two things: What those in power think of Sam Howell and if they pick a rookie signal-caller at No. 2 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. These two decisions will have huge ramifications for the future.
Howell's contract is cheap enough to stick around. If the Commanders end up picking Drake Maye, their close relationship from college at North Carolina makes keeping both almost a guarantee.
A situation could also emerge where the Commanders need a veteran backup to pick up the slack. Someone who won't threaten the incoming college prospect in any way but could keep things ticking over in the event of injury or poor performance.
In this scenario, someone like Tyrod Taylor might enter the discussion. He's not the force of old - far from it actually - but his experience as a starter coupled with insight into what it takes to succeed in the pros could be huge assets to call upon.
Taylor's 47.7 QBR achieved in five games under center for the New York Giants in 2023 was his highest number since 2017. He also knows how to mentor behind the scenes thanks to his sterling work with Justin Herbert after he was drafted by the Los Angeles Chargers.
Signing Taylor is unlikely to cost the earth. He'll also have inside knowledge of an NFC East rival, which only sweetens the pot further.