What would you consider the Washington Commanders’ biggest need heading into the 2023 NFL draft?
Even after signing Nick Gates, Andrew Wylie and Trey Scott in free agency, Washington’s top needs remain on the offensive line and at cornerback. While some may say that quarterback is a major need, the Commanders feel good about their quarterbacks in 2023. However, with Jake Fromm currently as the No. 3 quarterback, don’t be surprised if Washington doesn’t add a quarterback at some point during the draft.
Two other potential need areas for the Commanders are at tight end and defensive end. While Washington has a full tight end room, it’s veteran Logan Thomas [coming off a bad season] and a room full of young, unproven players. This is an area to watch.
At defensive end, the Commanders are loaded with Chase Young, Montez Sweat, Efe Obada, Casey Toohill and James Smith-Williams. But if Washington does not pick up Young’s fifth-year option, all five will be free agents at the end of 2023. So don’t be surprised if Washington adds someone here.
Chad Reuter of NFL.com recently completed a four-round mock draft and touched on some of the above needs. Here’s Reuter’s mock draft with some analysis on each potential selection.
First round, No. 16 overall: Florida G O'Cyrus Torrence
Multiple mock drafts have placed Torrence in Washington in the first round. With Broderick Jones and Devon Witherspoon still available, it was a bit of a surprise to see Torrence go ahead of those two players because of Washington’s needs. However, Torrence is a day-one starter at guard, and that’s hard to ignore.
It is possible the Commanders will use 2021 second-round pick Sam Cosmi at right guard, but I believe new offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy would love to see Torrence moving run defenders after watching Trey Smith do just that in Kansas City. In this scenario, Cosmi could take over the important swing tackle position.
Second round, No. 47 overall: Oregon State TE Luke Musgrave
Some consider Luke Musgrave a first-round prospect in a deep tight end class. Musgrave is big [6-foot-6, 253 pounds] and fast [4.61 seconds in the 40-yard dash]. While tight end isn’t a pressing need, the Commanders get a big-time weapon for quarterback Sam Howell in new offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy’s offense. This is a steal at this point for Washington.
Third round, No. 97 overall: Utah CB Clark Phillips III
Don’t see Clark Phillips here and scoff at Washington selecting a cornerback late in the third round and think he can’t help them in 2023. Phillips was a big-time recruit who chose Utah over Ohio State. He was an immediate starter for the Utes, and during his junior season in 2022, he was the Pac-12 defensive player of the year. Phillips will fall on draft day because he measured in at 5-foot-9 and ran the 40 in 4.51 seconds.
Phillips can play. One of his strengths is his football IQ and desire to be the best. Phillips will be a coach’s favorite from the moment he’s drafted. He could immediately become Washington’s slot corner in 2023.
Fourth round, No. 118 overall: Wisconsin EDGE Nick Herbig
Herbig is a player who could help the Commanders in 2023 as a situational pass rusher. However, if he was the pick here, this would be more of a pick for the future. At 6-foot-2, 240 pounds, Herbig is undersized to play defensive end in Washington’s 4-3 scheme. He is a terrific athlete who is strong and quick. Herbig will be a good player in the NFL. He is all about effort.
