With the NFL draft over and rookie camps underway, it is a good time to evaluate the draft picks and see what kind of impacts the projected contributors will make.
Let’s take a look at the Commanders draft picks and project some stats for the team’s early draftees:
Cornerback Emmanuel Forbes
Interceptions: 5
Passes defended: 8
Washington had a major need in their secondary, and they used their first pick to address that need. Emmanuel Forbes was a dynamo during his college career, making a living off of returning interceptions for points. While Forbes size is a bit concerning, his physical playstyle and technique ensures he will be a day one starter.
Defensive Back Jartavius Martin
Interceptions: 2
Passes defended: 4
Pairing rookies in the same positional group has become a popular trend in the NFL, and the Commanders took part of that with the selection of Jartavius Martin in the second round. While he will not be an outside starter like Forbes, Martin has the versatility to either start at nicker or at safety, and will likely be bounced around in a versatile Ron Rivera defense.
Offensive Lineman Ricky Stromberg
Sacks allowed: 2
Penalties: 5
While the Commanders do have some depth along the interior offensive line, there is going to be competition at multiple spots. Ricky Stromberg’s best position is center, but his athleticism and football intelligence could lend some versatility, and he could win a starting job based on those factors.
