Needless to say, the Washington Commanders are at a crossroads heading into the first overall pick of the 2024 draft. With just five draft picks, the team will need to hit home runs in order to add impactful players to their roster. Strategic key player acquisitions, as well as commitment to in-house player development will be essential to their success next season. These aren’t the only bold strategic moves the Commanders have made in free agency. They’re enthused by their homegrown talent and they’re in position to make this the best transformative year yet!
The most heralded of last year’s group, picked 100th overall, got off on the right foot. He recorded 12 catches in the first eight games but struggled to maintain that momentum, finishing the season with just six receptions over the final 12 games, including playoffs. This drop off has led to some inconsistent play and performance that the Commanders hope to clean up heading into the future.
Recent Additions and Strategic Moves
The Commanders have notable recent trades, as they acquired Laremy Tunsil this offseason. This change will almost certainly lead to more changes along the offensive line. More importantly though, it directly affects Coleman’s place—drafted 67th overall—going forward. Coleman had an impactful season, contributing to the offensive line’s stability, but his role may shift given Tunsil’s arrival.
Aside from Tunsil, the Commanders campaigned aggressively on bolstering their defensive front in free agency. The duo of Eddie Goldman and Javon Kinlaw should add even more talent to an already stout D that boasts a trio of first-round talents up front. Plus, Deatrich Wise Jr. was selected, bolstering the roster even more.
Coach Dan Quinn expressed enthusiasm about the development of last season’s rookies, stating, “There will be a really big jump in the development of our own rookies from last season.” He stressed how often growth can come not just through physical development, but learning the game and growing past injuries.
“As they go through their first offseason together, these big jumps can take place. Not every one of them is about a physical skill or trait; it might be a knowledge thing or an injury to come back from.” – Dan Quinn
Rookies and Future Prospects
Javontae Jean-Baptiste of last year’s rookie class is a near glaring exception. At 24 years old and selected in the seventh round, he has shown potential that could be unlocked further with another year of experience. In a statement, General Manager Adam Peters praised Jean-Baptiste’s standout qualities. He’s got size, he’s got speed, he’s got great movement skills and I just think he’s only going to ascend.”
Another big cog here is McCaffrey, who is still the Commanders’ only receiver younger than 27. His best is absolutely ahead of him. After a year of acclimating and becoming more familiar with the team’s system, he has the potential to be the Commanders’ centerpiece in their goal of establishing a younger core around him.
Logan Paulsen, a Commanders analyst, highlighted another promising talent by commenting on Jer’Zhan’s trajectory: “Seeing how he was playing toward the tail end of last year, he’s wired the right way and he wants to be good and he can be good. Jer’Zhan is poised for something special.”
Challenges Ahead
Despite these positive developments, challenges remain. Magee’s absence after surgery for a torn meniscus in his knee set back his progress last season. His return would boost the receiving corps back up to an advantage. It nevertheless creates concern about his readiness and fitness as he returns to the court in competitive play.
As the Commanders build their roster from the draft, they have to take measured risks and prioritize where immediate fixes are needed. With just five draft picks that’s obviously very few to work with, each pick will be extremely important. The team’s leadership remains focused on maximizing each choice to ensure that they draft players who can contribute immediately.
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