The Commanders have a lot of options to consider, and things are heating up as they head into the 2024 NFL Draft. The organization has seemingly prioritized rebuilding its roster. They’re especially in need of running backs, defensive backs and offensive lineman. Their plan revolves around attacking versatile, big-bodied game-changers and speed merchants. To this end, they’ve made it their mission to beef up their defensive line.
From the outset of the draft the Commanders have shown a clear fascination with RBs in the dark fourth round. As they look hard at their existing roster, they’re already loaded with interesting talent in their backfield. Brian Robinson Jr. continues to excel as the team’s new power back. Comparatively, Austin Ekeler continues to be a great third down back option. From there, compounding these strengths, the team went out and took care of the depth chart by re-signing a veteran in Jeremy McNichols.
During the draft process, we constantly heard about how much the Commanders were looking at backs who could do more than one thing. RG — The new coaching staff has talked about what they want their running game to look like in terms of speed and versatility. They are looking for backs who can excel not only in traditional running situations but catch passes out of the backfield.
By adding a runner with a different skill set, the Commanders will be able to further expand their offensive playbook. With Robinson’s power style, complemented by Ekeler’s agility and McNichols’ experience, selecting a speed-oriented back could give the team an edge in creating mismatches against opposing defenses.
There’s still a lot of interest in change-of-pace runners, too. A player who can easily change speeds and maintain a defense’s balance would be a tremendous asset for the Commanders. The ability to rotate backs based on situational needs appears to be a priority as they head into the draft.
Defensive Enhancements and Pass Rush
Beyond just the attention to the running backs, the Commanders have made defense a major priority on the field and in the locker room. This isn’t new, as they have inquired on several other pass rushers, looking to strengthen their defensive front during the draft. From the start, Head Coach Dan Quinn has emphasized that getting after opposing quarterbacks would be the key ingredient to their defense.
“Affecting the quarterback has to be at the top of what you want to do defensively,” – Dan Quinn
Quinn elaborated on his vision for the team’s defensive strategy, highlighting the need for pressure without overextending their defensive calls.
“You don’t always want to be able to have to bring five or six to generate pressure and pass rush,” – Dan Quinn
He reiterated that it is essential to be able to create pressure with only four rushers. This method saves defensive standing assets, enabling greater versatility, and replicates as different as the situation mentioned earlier.
“So, when you can get there with four and affect the quarterback and get him out of the pocket, or change where he has to go, set his feet, that’s what we’re looking for,” – Dan Quinn
The Commanders currently have seven corners on their roster. This year’s strategy has been about building their secondary up and shoring up their pass-rush.
Offensive Line Considerations
As the Commanders continue to watch the market for offensive linemen, they remain in worn with the belief they could add one. The Seahawks were high on Alabama guard Tyler Booker. Beyond Matthews, they’re pursuing Oregon tackle Josh Conerly Jr., and either player would help to solidify their lineup to be much stronger in the trenches. Fortifying the offensive line is priority number one. It will, more than anything, better protect the quarterback and open up running lanes for their backs.
All in all, these draft considerations are emblematic of a holistic approach by the Commanders to develop a balanced and competitive roster. As they prepare for the draft, it is clear that they are looking to enhance both their offense and defense.
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