The Washington Commanders had a massive hole at left tackle heading into the 2024 NFL draft. However, with the No. 2 overall pick and needing a quarterback, Washington selected Jayden Daniels.
Understanding the need to protect the new quarterback, the Commanders attempted to move back into the first round and select an offensive tackle in what was a deep class for the position. Feeling the cost was too high, Washington traded down in the second round, meaning it would have three second-round picks and two third-round picks.
With its three second-round picks, the Commanders selected Illinois defensive tackle Johnny Newton, cornerback Mike Sainristil and Kansas State tight end Ben Sinnott.
With their first third-round pick, Washington selected offensive lineman Brandon Coleman. The goal is for Coleman to compete with veteran Cornelius Lucas at left tackle.
But what if Coleman can’t beat out Lucas? That means the Commanders will once again be looking for a left tackle in the 2025 NFL draft.
Speaking of the 2025 NFL draft, Matt Miller of ESPN recently unveiled a new mock draft. He has Washington picking fifth (Miller used ESPN’s Football Power Index for the potential draft order) and finally finding its left tackle.
The player: Texas offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr.
If the draft were tomorrow, we’d be talking about left tackle and edge rusher as massive needs for the Commanders. That could change between now and April, but general manager Adam Peters could definitely address the blind side of the line; Washington has to protect quarterback Jayden Daniels after allowing 65 sacks last season (tied for second most). Banks is a prototypical left tackle with a powerful 324-pound frame, and the junior has allowed just two sacks over his two full seasons starting for the Longhorns.
If Washington struggles again this season, you can bet drafting a tackle would be a high priority. Even if Coleman proves to be an answer at offensive tackle, the Commanders will need two tackles next offseason. Banks could prove difficult to pass up. The 6-foot-4, 324-pound Banks is a smooth athlete with excellent footwork who Washington could pair with Daniels for the next decade.
The Commanders hope Coleman proves he’s the answer so they can focus on other positions, such as adding a dynamic edge rusher.
