Which Washington Commanders news stories are hitting the headlines as the new regime continues to turn heads around the league?
There is never a dull moment where the Washington Commanders are concerned these days. Those in power are implementing their grand plans for progression with supreme conviction. They are making everyone around the NFL sit up and take notice. This is not the same laughingstock organization that Dan Snyder managed. They mean business.
As expected, the headlines have been plentiful. Among the stories generating discussion include Washington's recent power moves, Sam Howell being linked with a move away, Brian Robinson Jr.'s potential, and the Commanders potentially acquiring wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk via trade.
Let's delve into each topic in more detail.
Commanders RB Brian Robinson Jr. ranked
One could make a strong case for Brian Robinson Jr. being underutilized last season. Eric Bieniemy's intent to go with a pass-happy offense whether they were trailing or not caused untold complications. But there were flashes from the running back to suggest he can become a genuine three-down threat capable of impacting the game in all phases.
Robinson came in at No. 32 on Maurice Jones-Drew's list of 72 starting running backs in 2023. The former player turned NFL.com analyst highlighted the lack of touches as a reason behind the ranking. Something that could change with new offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury calling the shots.
"Washington had the fewest rushing attempts in the league this season, due in part to how often the team played from behind, which limited Robinson's production. Even so, the second-year back amassed 1,101 scrimmage yards in his first full season as RB1. We’ll see if he can build on that under Kliff Kingsbury in 2024."Maurice Jones-Drew, NFL.com
The Washington Commanders need to find a more balanced offense next season, especially if they are moving forward with a rookie quarterback. Robinson's done more than enough to be a focal point en route to a potential breakout campaign in 2024.
Commanders power moves
The Washington Commanders are leaving no stone unturned to find the right people capable of putting their ambitious plans into action. Josh Harris' ownership group is backing these power moves financially. More acquisitions raised eyebrows on Wednesday.
Adam Peters pulled off a coup by luring Lance Newmark from the Detroit Lions to become their new assistant general manager. The respected front-office figure was seen as a leading figure behind the scenes during the NFC North team's rise from obscurity. He'll now work for similar success in Washington.
"Lance is someone that I have known and respected in the scouting community my entire career. He is a highly respected talent evaluator and a great leader who will fit perfectly into what we're building here in Washington. I want to thank Brad Holmes and the Lions organization for being first class in working with us on the process of bringing Lance to the DMV. Lance is a phenomenal person, and he will immediately elevate our overall personnel function here at the Commanders. It is my absolute pleasure to welcome Lance and his family to Washington."Adam Peters via Commanders.com
Marty Hurney and Martin Mayhew will remain on board in different roles. This keeps a sense of continuity heading into a pivotal offseason for the franchise. If that wasn't enough, the Commanders got themselves more prolific coaches to work under Dan Quinn.
Tom Donatell joins as the team's defensive backs coach. The Commanders also secured the services of Anthony Lynn, a former head coach who recently held the position of San Francisco 49ers run game coordinator. While these coaches have to mesh together, the potential is there for all to see.
Should the Commanders pursue Brandon Aiyuk?
After the San Francisco 49ers surrendered another double-digit lead en route to a Super Bowl loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, speculation quickly followed about what the future might hold for some of their established stars. They have one year left of quarterback Brock Purdy's rookie contract before he's extension-eligible. It would be wise for the team to go all-in on winning the big one next season before things get a little more complicated.
Stud wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk was non-committal about his future when speaking to the media. He's got one year remaining on his deal. His talent is undeniable, but there is only so much money to go around.
Nathaniel Marrero from Sports Illustrated urged the Washington Commanders to monitor the situation closely. Adam Peters knows the player well. If the Niners start taking calls, the new general manager should be among the first to pick up the phone.
"If anyone would know what it should take to land [Brandon] Aiyuk via trade, it's [Adam] Peters. And if he's willing to pay a hefty price to land Aiyuk and sign him to an extension, it'd bode well for the Commanders and their future. If the 49ers' No. 1 receiver does indeed want out, Washington would be remiss not to at least see what it would cost to get him to the nation's capital."Nathaniel Marrero, Sports Illustrated
Adding Aiyuk to a wide receiver room that also includes Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson is a mouth-watering proposition. One potential stumbling block is his pending deal, although there are ways to work around any complications in this scenario.
Commanders QB Sam Howell's future
All signs point to the Washington Commanders taking a quarterback at No. 2 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. This casts doubt on Sam Howell's future with the franchise after an indifferent first season as the starting signal-caller.
Howell was dealt a poor hand. Eric Bieniemy and Ron Rivera put too much pressure on his young shoulders. It came as no surprise to see the former fifth-round selection display signs of serious regression behind a pathetic offensive line.
All hope is not lost for Howell, not by a long shot. Justin Melo from The Draft Network tabbed the Pittsburgh Steelers as a potential destination for the player if Washington looks to move him for some additional capital this offseason.
"The Commanders are expected to draft a quarterback with the second overall selection, either North Carolina's Drake Maye or LSU's Jayden Daniels. Sam Howell was dealt a raw hand behind an abysmal offensive line in 2023. Howell showcased his toughness by routinely navigating faltering pockets. A gunslinger, Howell threw for 3,946 yards and 21 touchdowns despite the lackluster circumstances. Peters wasn't the GM that drafted Howell and he may be willing to part with him for a day-three pick. Howell's competitive attitude makes him an ideal candidate to push [Kenny] Pickett in training camp."Justin Melo, The Draft Network
This would be a tremendous landing spot for Howell. The Steelers might be on the lookout for something bigger after missing the postseason in 2023. Everything is on the table right now and in truth, it could go either way.