Commanders news: Drake Maye, Eric Bieniemy, Tyron Smith and stadium change
By Dean Jones
Which Washington Commanders news stories are hitting the headlines with a little more than a week remaining until free agency begins?
It was a day to remember for wide receiver prospects set to take their chances at the next level in 2024. Although it was expected to be the deepest wideout draft class in recent memory before on-field drills at the NFL Scouting Combine, a blistering display of speed and athleticism from most means we could get a record-breaking number taken in the first round as a result.
This won't have gone unnoticed by the Washington Commanders, who could be looking for a new dynamic pass-catcher to help their rookie quarterback if one is taken at No. 2 overall as expected. There's also the small matter of free agency to get through first, with general manager Adam Peters primed to make the moves needed to get this proud franchise back to respectability.
While we wait for further developments, the stories causing debate include potential interest in Drake Maye, Eric Bieniemy receving praise, the prospect of landing stud left tackle Tyron Smith, and discussions surrounding new stadium rights already underway.
Let's delve into each topic in more detail.
Commanders stadium name rights
While it was something of a shock to see FedEx end their association with the Washington Commanders, it's probably a deal they've been looking to get out of for some time. The current stadium descended into a relic thanks to Dan Snyder's lack of investment. Josh Harris' ownership group is papering over the cracks before a new venue is decided, but a fresh start was always a realistic possibility.
A statement from the Commanders revealed that talks regarding naming rights are already underway with interested parties. Given that this is no longer a toxic franchise with little going for it, it would be a surprise if something concrete didn't emerge by the 2024 season.
"We have already started the process of identifying our next stadium naming rights partner — a partner who will play a crucial role in ushering in the next era of not only Commanders football, but also a robust slate of top live events and concerts."
- Commanders statement via Bleacher Report
For now, the former FedEx Field is named Commanders Stadium. But that could change soon.