What Position Will Commanders Rookie Braeden Daniels Play?

The Washington Commanders drafted Utah offensive lineman Braeden Daniels in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft.

When the Washington Commanders drafted Utah offensive lineman Braeden Daniels, two traits stood out above all else ... experience and versatility. 

Starting 43 games over his collegiate tenure, Daniels played all over the place for the Utes' offensive line with 18 starts at left guard, 14 at left tackle and 11 at right tackle over his five seasons. 

And the 2022 Pac-12 All-Conference recipient believes this is one of the most invaluable traits he brings going into his rookie campaign.  

“My versatility," Daniels said. "My ability to play multiple, different positions. I'm gonna try and come in and be very versatile, play, tackle, play guard, and maybe even a little bit of center. Just blessed to be here and be able to use my God-given gifts to my advantage.”

And while he never played center over his collegiate career, Daniels does have experience at the position if Washington ever needs him to snap. 

“Yeah, I have center tape and I played it in my spring game I believe two years ago," Daniels said. "I have the ability to play it and I feel confident in my ability to snap and all that. 

"That's something I'm still learning and getting used to.”

But on the outside is where Daniels will likely make his money during his NFL career. In 2021, the fourth-round pick posted a career-high 84.4 offensive grade from Pro Football Focus, and the following year Daniels played an instrumental role in helping Utah rank 11th in the FBS in rushing yards per game. 

“The last two years I've been playing tackle, so I do feel comfortable at the tackle position," Daniels said. "I feel like my arms, I have the length play it. I have athleticism and feet to play it. That’s what I've been playing that’s where I comfortable right now. But, you know, I've played guard and I started at guard in my college career and I built some very good relationships and I'm excited to get to work with some of the coaches up there.”

Daniels will look to compete for a starting spot behind left tackle Charles Leno Jr. and right tackle Andrew Wylie. 

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