Washington fans wanted the Commanders to take an offensive lineman in the 2023 NFL draft. Some fans would’ve been OK with Washington selecting multiple offensive linemen in an effort to improve one of the NFL’s worst offensive lines.
After picking defensive backs with their first two picks, the Commanders were back on the board at No. 97 overall, one of the final picks of the third round.
What did Washington do?
The Commanders selected Arkansas center Ricky Stromberg, a first-team All-SEC selection in 2022. The 6-foot-3, 306-pounder won the Jacobs Blocking Trophy as the SEC’s top offensive lineman.
Stromberg joins a crowded position in Washington. The Commanders signed Nick Gates to a three-year deal. Gates can play center or guard but said he expected to play center for Washington. Longtime starter Chase Roullier, who is coming off back-to-back major injuries and has a high cap number, remains on the roster. Finally, there is reliable veteran backup Tyler Larsen.
Stromberg can also play guard.
Here is Lance Zierlein of NFL.com’s scouting report on Stromberg:
Center prospect with enough athleticism and strength to be considered scheme independent. Early impressions could leave evaluators unimpressed with his lack of control at times; however, his process and results should quickly grow on them. Stromberg generates decent movement at the point of attack and is well-schooled with landmarks as a zone blocker. His waist-bending causes inconsistencies with his mirror and recoveries in protection. He has an innate feel for angles and positioning that leads to some unexpected block wins. Stromberg has a chance to become a starting center with the flexibility to play guard if needed.
