Updated quarterback rankings for the Commanders after 2024 NFL Combine
By Dean Jones
How could the Washington Commanders rank this year's quarterback prospects after the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine?
All eyes are on the quarterback position as the Washington Commanders look to find a franchise-altering presence under center. Many believe those in power will use the No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 draft on one of the top college prospects. Moving forward with Sam Howell hasn't been dismissed, but it would be surprising.
Although the consensus top three candidates chose not to participate in on-field drills at the annual NFL Scouting Combine, the event represented a good chance to find out more about them during interviews and see what those further down the pecking order had to offer. As general manager Adam Peters recently stated, scouting the personality is just as important as the talent itself.
This is arguably the most important decision Peters will make as Washington's new front-office leader. There's a chance to get off on the right foot with so many assets at the team's disposal. Finding the correct signal-caller is the most pivotal piece of this complex puzzle. Hitting a home run in his first offseason would open things up positively and finally lay a strong foundation for future success.
It seems for all the smart money as if Washington will choose between two prospects if they stand pat at No. 2. If Peters gets an offer he cannot refuse for the second pick, it opens things up to strengthen other potential areas of need. Working around a rookie contract is always the fastest way to mold a contender, too.
Commanders QB rankings after the NFL Combine
With that said, here is our top-10 quarterback draft rankings after the NFL Scouting Combine:
- Caleb Williams (USC)
- Jayden Daniels (LSU)
- Drake Maye (North Carolina)
- Michael Penix Jr. (Washington)
- Bo Nix (Oregon)
- J.J. McCarthy (Michigan)
- Spencer Rattler (South Carolina)
- Jordan Travis (Florida State)
- Joe Milton III (Tennessee)
- Michael Pratt (Tulane)
As we all know, Caleb Williams will be out of reach unless the Commanders offer a king's ransom for a trade-up or the Chicago Bears completely shift course. The Commanders will therefore have their pick of the rest, which could come down to Jayden Daniels - the Heisman Trophy winner - or Drake Maye.
One could make a case for both. Daniels seems to have the off-script ability and game-changing traits head coach Dan Quinn is looking for. Some question whether his sensational final campaign at LSU was a one-off, but the rewards would be substantial if he makes additional strides upon arriving at the next level.
Maye is a little raw. The footwork needs significant work. If he was the guy - which is entirely possible based on reports - the Commanders could start Howell for another season or perhaps even acquire another veteran if the situation dictates. This would avoid throwing the North Carolina prospect to the proverbial wolves before he's ready.
As for the rest? Michael Penix Jr. probably came out of on-field drills with the most positives. J.J. McCarthy could be anything. Joe Milton III has an absolute cannon and the physical size that will enamor some teams as a development project on Day 3. The same applies to Spencer Rattler - whose arm is live - but he'll be taken at some stage on Day 2.
There is a lot for Peters to ponder. Assessments are ongoing, but Commanders fans can relax safe in the knowledge they are in a strong position with genuine football men making the calls.
It's been a long time since they could say that.
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