Washington Commanders NFL Draft Preview: What to do at #11
The buzz around the Washington Commanders and the 11th overall pick in the draft is picking up rapidly. As a quarterback-hungry team, many expect them to select one of the top prospects at the position, like Malik Willis or Kenny Pickett. If they’re available, and the Commanders haven’t used their pick in a trade for a veteran, that would likely be their best bet.
However, this year’s group of quarterbacks is lacking compared to others. Sure, Pickett was a Heisman Trophy finalist, but both ESPN and Pro Football Focus have him ranked outside of their top-20 prospects. Same goes for Willis and Ole Miss standout Matt Corral. Does that mean the Commanders should hold off until, say, the second, third or fourth rounds to find their guy?
The “Best Player Available” Approach
Many well-respected NFL Draft analysts have come forward and said this year’s draft class is more about depth than star power, especially at QB. Although they all have promise, most of the top guys may need a year or two to develop. A team like Washington, just a season removed from a playoff berth, may not have the patience for such a player.
At pick 11, they’ll be in a good position to land one of the best players in the draft. The Commanders have other pressing needs that can be addressed there, like linebacker and wide receiver. Maybe it’s the freak athlete at linebacker Nakobe Dean, or the highflying wideout Chris Olave. There are plenty of different routes to go besides quarterback — they could even trade back and still land some good talent.
Drafting BPA is often good for teams in “win now” mode, as they’re able to add another piece to an already-capable roster. Washington went this route in 2020 when they selected eventual Rookie-of-the-Year Chase Young with the 2nd overall pick. They did, however, miss out on Tua Tagovailoa, Jalen Hurts and Justin Herbert. That’s something they should be thinking about heading into draft night.
Benefits of Drafting a QB in the First Round
Even with other, likely more-suitable players on the board, Washington may stay the course and draft their quarterback early. This wouldn’t be much of a surprise, given their previous methods of getting one haven’t succeeded. Even though it may seem like they’re over-drafting, there are a few good reasons to take a QB in the first round.
The Commanders aren’t the only team looking for a new gunslinger this offseason. In some fashion, it’s likely the Broncos, Steelers and Panthers all look for someone with their first picks, along with the Colts, Falcons and Lions having interest as well. This means the Commanders can justify using a first-round pick considering the competition around them.
Another important part of being a first-round pick is the four-year contract and fifth-year team option that comes with it. If they end up landing a gem, he’ll be locked up for five years on a rookie deal, assuming an extension isn’t offered within that timeframe. On the flip side, they could decline his fifth-year option if things don’t pan out, or trade him for a decent return if there’s a market. First-round contracts, though costly, can have immense value.
Author’s Opinion
I personally think the Washington Commanders are just a few pieces away from being a consistent playoff team. One of those pieces (QB) is a lot bigger than the others, but if they find a guy they like in the draft, they shouldn’t hesitate to get him. Give him time, allow him to develop and surround him with star power on the offensive line and out wide at receiver.
See my previous story: Three Free-Agent Targets for the Commanders
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