What time will Commanders be on the clock in the 2024 NFL Draft?
By Dean Jones
All eyes are on the Washington Commanders as they gear up for one of the most critical NFL Draft processes in franchise history. Adam Peters is loaded with an arsenal of picks - six in the top 100 and nine in total. The new general manager also boasts the No. 2 overall selection, which will most likely be utilized on what hopefully becomes the team's next franchise quarterback.
This is an exciting time. Fans would normally be dreading the thought of what comes next during Dan Snyder's incompetent ownership. Now, there is a strong level of confidence that the right infrastructure and people are in place to ensure everything goes off without a hitch.
The Commanders are reportedly hosting around 20 prospects for final visits - including the top-four signal-callers available once Caleb Williams goes No. 1 overall to the Chicago Bears. This is a method Peters is adopting from his time in the San Francisco 49ers' front office. Hopefully, it'll have a similar impact looking at how well they've drafted in recent years.
It's been a long, often arduous process. Thankfully, the end is in sight.
Draft festivities will officially begin with the first round on Thursday, April 25. Time is of the essence for teams around the league as they frantically finalize plans and identify which organizations might be receptive to trading up or down. Peters and the Commanders are no different, but having so many picks increases their options.
This is a luxury most teams don't have. Something the Commanders must put to good use as they look to emerge from the also-rans and into contention.
For fans, the draft is a long three days. For those looking to tune in specifically for the Commanders' pick and not much else, we've got you covered.
What time will the Commanders be on the clock in the 2024 NFL Draft?
The first-round night is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. Eastern Time. The Commanders could be on the clock between 8.25-8.35 p.m. Here's how we know.
Media outlets broadcasting the event tend to go through a 10-15 minute introduction before the showcase. There will be a couple of ad breaks, then Roger Goodell will officially get the draft underway by putting the Bears on the clock.
Each team has 10 minutes in the first round to make their pick. And as we all know, the Commanders are next up at No. 2 overall.
Of course, there are some other factors to consider. Everyone knows the Bears are taking Williams atop the draft. It's whether they decide to turn in their card right away or let the clock run down before doing so that will eventually determine when Washington is on deck, so to speak.
There's another possibility to consider. Considering how many draft assets Peters has at his disposal, one couldn't completely dismiss the notion of Washington trading back into the first round for a left tackle prospect high on their board. That could be at any stage, in all honesty, so keeping a close eye on developments would be sound advice given how unpredictable the event typically becomes.
Buckle up, it promises to be another rollercoaster ride.