The Washington Commanders head into the 2024 offseason with a war chest of draft picks and plenty of questions to answer. While they possess some exciting young talent, there are plenty of holes on this roster that need to be addressed. So as the Commanders begin the Dan Quinn era, let’s take a look at their top 5 positions needing attention in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Washington Commanders Positions to Address in the NFL Draft
The Commanders have made wholesale changes this offseason beginning with hiring Dan Quinn from the Cowboys to be their new head coach. In free agency, they’ve added multiple veterans including RB Austin Ekeler and LB Bobby Wagner, bringing some much-needed leadership to D.C. Now it’s on to the NFL Draft where the most important position in football is their top priority.
Quarterback
It’s no secret that The Washington Commanders’ biggest need and top 2024 NFL Draft priority will be a quarterback. They gave the former 5th-round pick Sam Howell a shot at leading the Commanders in 2023, but after leading the NFL in interceptions, Dan Quinn and company decided to go in a different direction. Washington has struggled to find a replacement for Kirk Cousins since he left for Minnesota so getting this pick right is crucial.
Edge Rusher
Washington held a blue light special on pass rushers last season. Shipping out both Chase Young and Montez Sweat ahead of the trade deadline. They’ve since replaced them with multiple free-agent acquisitions like Dante Fowler Jr., Dorance Armstrong, and Clelin Ferrell. But only Armstrong is signed on for multiple years. Restocking their depth at this position will also be important under defensive-minded Dan Quinn.
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Offensive Tackle
Everyone knows that the most important outside of quarterback is the position that blocks for the quarterback and that’s at left tackle. Washington surrendered the 2nd most sacks in the league last season, and they haven’t made any significant upgrades or depth adds in free agency. They need to address this issue and possibly find a player who can grow into a solid blindside tackle for their QB of the future.
Wide Receiver
Jahan Dotson has shown flashes of brilliance over his first two seasons and Terry McLaurin is a legitimate star. However, McLaurin isn’t getting any younger, and the receiving corps lacks reliable depth beyond those two after Curtis Samuel left in free agency. Drafting a slot receiver or a big-bodied outside target would give their new quarterback more weapons to work with.
Defensive Backs
Washington surrendered the most passing yards and touchdowns while also finishing last in interceptions. They have already begun adding pieces to this area of need via free agency but in addition to upgrades, they need depth. Washington holds five picks during the second and third rounds so it won’t be surprising if they add multiple DBs in that range.
Washington Commanders Offseason Additions
The Commanders were one of the most active teams during free agency, bringing in multiple players who’ll be key contributors in 2024. A couple of their most impactful moves are below.
Washington Commanders 2024 NFL Draft Picks
The Washington Commanders begin their 2024 NFL Draft with the 2nd overall pick and as of right, have nine overall selections.