Commanders surge up for elite offensive tackle in dream mock draft

It's common knowledge that the Washington Commanders will be taking a quarterback at No. 2 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. Adam Peters revealed that those in power are close to finalizing their selection. One that could shape the future of the franchise for good or bad depending on if the pick works out.

After that, the Commanders need to focus their attention on finding a premier left tackle capable of providing blindside assurance for the next decade. This is a deep class for offensive linemen - something that hasn't gone unnoticed by Peters based on his strategy so far this offseason.

The Commanders released veteran starter Charles Leno Jr., which wasn't surprising considering the savings attached. Peters did little to fortify the edge protection in free agency. Cornelius Lucas re-signing a one-year deal was the only notable transaction in this pivotal position group. Andrew Wylie looks set to get another shot at right tackle, but the left remains a mystery heading into the draft.

Commanders trade up for Olu Fashanu in NFL.com mock draft

Expect Peters to address this complication as a matter of urgency once their new quarterback is confirmed. They could sit around and wait to see which prospects become available at No. 36, but the Commanders have enough draft capital to be more aggressive depending on how the board plays out.

This was a topic addressed by Dan Parr from NFL.com in his latest mock draft. After the Commanders selected quarterback Jayden Daniels with the second pick, the analyst tipped Washington to make a daring trade for the No. 17 overall selection with the Jacksonville Jaguars to select Olu Fashanu.

"The buzz continues to build in the Heisman Trophy winner’s favor at No. 2, and don’t be surprised if the Commanders aggressively move to upgrade Daniels’ supporting cast via the draft.

"As NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah recently suggested, first-year GM Adam Peters could be willing to take a big swing to help protect his new quarterback. He gives up a pair of second-rounders (Nos. 36 and 40) to land Fashanu, who returns to his old stomping grounds in D.C. With the top two corners getting snatched up, the Jaguars are willing to move down."

To say this is a dream scenario would be an understatement. Fashanu is an instant problem-solver and arguably the best pass-protector in this year's class. If he makes it this far down the pecking order, the Commanders would be foolish not to at least explore the possibility.

Fashanu has a unique blend of size, length, and athleticism. He's adept at getting into his stance quickly and utilizing leverage to thwart opposing edge rushers with ease. This is matched by outstanding footwork and technical prowess, making him an incredibly difficult proposition to get around in pursuit of the quarterback.

There is a natural fluidity to the prospect's movement that defies a man his size. His ability to counteract pass-rushing moves through quick-twitch agility is a sight to behold. There is some work needed on running plays, but this should be able to be coached into the phenomenal Penn State stud.

Whether Fashanu makes it to No. 17 is another matter. There promises to be a run on quarterbacks first. Then, expect offensive tackles and wide receivers to come off the board in quick succession. Just when that occurs is up for debate, but Peters should be working the phones and watching developments closer than most.

If the Commanders came out of Day 1 with a potential franchise signal-caller and starting left tackle, it'll give their rebuild a significant shot in the arm. It'll cost them their two second-round selections in this scenario. But if it fills two critical needs long-term, nobody will be complaining about the compensation.