As we look toward the 2023 regular season, we count down the most important players for the Washington Commanders ahead of training camp. On Friday, No. 13 was running back Brian Robinson Jr.
We continue our countdown today with No. 12, center Nick Gates.
The Commanders signed Gates this offseason to a three-year contract to replace former starter Chase Roullier. Washington loved Roullier, but after he missed most of the last two seasons with different leg injuries, the Commanders needed stability at center. Washington has started at least four different centers in each of the last two seasons.
In addition to signing Gates away from the rival New York Giants, the Commanders drafted Ricky Stromberg in the third round of the 2023 NFL draft and re-signed Tyler Larsen. Depth shouldn’t be an issue this upcoming season.
Gates played all over the offensive line during his time with the Giants. The 27-year-old said this year that he came to Washington to play center. Gates is a critical piece to the rebuilt offensive line, particularly with a young quarterback in Sam Howell. Howell has one career start. Having a veteran center such as Gates takes some of the pressure off Howell at the line of scrimmage, as he can help set up protections, among other things.
The Commanders are thrilled with Stromberg but don’t look for them to pair a rookie center with what is essentially a rookie quarterback. Washington has seen what injuries at center can do to an entire offensive line, which is another reason why Gates is critical to the team’s success.
Don’t be surprised, too, if Gates becomes one of the Commanders’ more popular players. Gates is still beloved in New York. He’s also viewed as an outstanding leader.
After seeing so many injuries in the last two years, Washington fans understand the importance of continuity at center.
