Commanders 7-round 2024 NFL mock draft: Filling needs edition
By Jonathan Eig
Commanders draft Zak Zinter
- Offensive Line | Michigan Wolverines
- No. 164 overall
I have seen the Washington Commanders take chances with players coming off injury. Sometimes it works - like the Jonathan Allen pick - sometimes not so much - as was the case with Brice Love.
Zak Zinter suffered an ugly leg injury in Michigan’s win over Ohio State a few weeks ago. His draft stock will plummet as a result. But if he can rehab effectively, this is a huge value selection in Round No. 6.
Before his injury, Zinter was a guard who looked tailormade for the NFL. The Commanders have not had a promising young interior lineman since the days of Brandon Scherff.
With Ricky Stromberg - this year's third-round pick - hopefully improving and with Donovan Jackson coming in this draft, Washington can wait on Zinter to regain his health. If he does that, the Commanders will be able to count upon a rebuilt offensive line stocked with cheap young talent firmly in place.
It’s worth the gamble. The Commanders haven't prioritized their protection throughout Ron Rivera's tenure. This should be the primary focus under a new regime and the draft represents the best - and cheapest - way to build the foundations for long-term prosperity.
Others to consider: De’Corian Clark, Dallin Holker, Ainias Smith.