Commanders 'Have All The Resources' to Build Around Franchise QB
The Washington Commanders are in a unique position entering free agency as they are armed with the No. 2 overall pick in the upcoming draft but also have significant cap space.
So, in theory, the Commanders could draft a quarterback at No. 2, say Jayden Daniels, and with their cap space, put multiple star pieces around him to give the LSU star the best chance at succeeding in his first NFL season.
We saw Sam Howell struggle in his first year as a starter, due in part to the lack of protection he received as he was sacked 65 times (second-most in the league) and now, surely one of the first points of business for the Commanders in free agency, is to shore up the offensive line.
CBS Sports details the rare position that Dan Quinn and the Commanders' hierarchy find themselves in.
"Everyone knows they need a quarterback, and yet they have all the resources to get one and build around him," CBS Sports writes. "Not a single team has more projected cap space ($91 million), which means they should be able to replace jettisoned prospects like Chase Young and Montez Sweat. And the No. 2 overall pick in the draft should still guarantee them one of this year's blue-chip prospects under center."
With Washington having significant cap room to be able to make several key additions, don't forget its draft stock either.
The Commanders, in total, have nine selections, which includes two second-round picks so the franchise could add even more firepower to either side of the ball post-free agency.
With Quinn and general manager Adam Peters tasked with trying to begin the new era in Washington with a bang, they have all the tools needed to get a good headstart.
A new quarterback is likely coming in at No. 2 as most mock drafts have Washington selecting one. With the cap space available, the Commanders can shore up the offensive line, add another weapon, or even add to the defensive side of the ball for Joe Whitt Jr. as there are holes along the defensive line also.
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Either way, key decisions will be made over the next month or so that will set the Commanders on a path that they hope will lead them out of the NFL doldrums and into relevancy.
They have the cap space and the draft capital to make some serious moves, let's just hope the right ones are made.