Commanders' Cornelius Lucas Replacing Charles Leno Jr.?

Will the Washington Commanders' fresh start within the organization pay dividends for Cornelius Lucas?

With a new regime comes a fresh start for many in the organization. That's where the Washington Commanders stand with general manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn entering their first season in the nation's capital. 

One player who could benefit from that is Washington Commanders' swing tackle, Cornelius Lucas. While he's a pending free agent, the 10th-year offensive tackle has been serviceable whenever he's had to fill in over the last four seasons for Washington. 

Nov 20, 2022; Houston, Texas, USA; Washington Commanders offensive tackle Cornelius Lucas (78) and quarterback Taylor Heinicke (4) celebrate a touchdown against the Houston Texans in the second quarter at NRG Stadium / Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports

The Athletic ranked Lucas fourth among the Commanders' pending free agents and noted he could have a chance to start if he gets re-signed and Charles Leno Jr. gets cut this offseason.

"Lucas has never been a first-team tackle on either side of the line with Washington, yet he is steady when called upon (31 starts) at left or right tackle," The Athletic writes. "Charles Leno Jr. is a potential salary-cap cut, and drafting a long-term tackle on Day 2 will be heavily mentioned among those projecting Washington’s moves. Lucas’ performance wanes with more exposure, but he’s an acceptable early-season option if a rookie isn’t ready immediately."

The Commanders have the second-most cap space after the Chicago Bears surpassed them after cutting two players. Washington has a path to make even more space if it designated Leno Jr. as a post-June 1st cut, which would save nearly $12 million.

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Leno Jr. has been solid at left tackle but turns 33 next season and ended this year on the injured reserve due to a calf injury. The Commanders' entire offensive line could use some turnover after they allowed the second-most sacks last season. 

If Peters and Quinn decide to go in a different direction at left tackle, Lucas should be an option after his play in limited playing time. He could offer similar production at a fraction of the cost for a season and be a solid stop-gap for whoever Peters eventually brings in through the draft or free agency to be a franchise left tackle.