Commanders 7-round 2024 NFL mock draft: Missing pieces edition
By Dean Jones
Commanders draft Tyler Guyton
- Offensive Tackle | Oklahoma Sooners
- No. 36 overall
Once the Washington Commanders choose their new franchise quarterback, surrounding him with everything needed to thrive becomes the biggest priority. Those in power have done a nice job in filling out the defense during free agency up to now. This provides general manager Adam Peters with an extra sense of freedom to find difference-makers on offense to place around their rookie signal-caller.
Charles Leno Jr.'s release and the dwindling free-agent market indicate the Commanders will be looking for a left tackle early in the draft. Cornelius Lucas re-signed on a one-year deal, but this seems like a backup, swing-type piece rather than someone capable of manning the blindside from a starting capacity.
This is a deep draft class for offensive linemen. Tyler Guyton could easily be a first-round pick based on his ascending college career and exceptional pre-draft assessment process to date. If he's available when the Commanders go on the clock at No. 36 overall, those in power must seriously consider the possibility.
Guyton has everything one looks for in a productive NFL edge protector. He's 6-foot-7 and 328 pounds with the athleticism to match. He's explosive getting into his stance and boasts outstanding technical strengths in pass protection. Once the Oklahoma prospect gains leverage, it's normally a done deal.
If Guyton improves his run blocking and core base to overcome his tall stature, he looks like a Day 1 starter with high-end potential. Something the Commanders desperately need to protect their new man under center.