NFL Draft: Commanders Could Land Versatile OL in Round 2

With all the focus these days on the Washington Commanders' first round pick, the second round prize could be a versatile offensive lineman in Syracuse's Matthew Bergeron who has a stellar collegiate resume.

The Washington Commanders could go numerous directions in the 2023 NFL Draft and reasonably so the first pick has had the most attention on it this offseason. 

But what about the Commanders' second pick? 

In the second round of this year's selection meeting Pro Football Focus says Washington could land Syracuse offensive lineman Matthew Bergeron, a player who could make an immediate impact. 

"The Commanders add another tackle with guard versatility," says PFF. "Bergeron could also be a plus pass protector at guard early on after allowing only 23 pressures on 770 pass-blocking snaps at left tackle across the past two seasons."

While the collegiate resume is nice, the Commanders will love the flexibility. 

With Sam Cosmi, Andrew Wylie, and Nick Gates already penciled into the starting five this season, Bergeron would add another offensive lineman who can play multiple positions. 

Given the injury issues and rotational impact it made on the group last year in Washington, the franchise would love the ability to plug holes in a multitude of ways, should they open up again. 

And, if the Commanders can get an offensive lineman like Bergeron in the second round, then the first-round pick can be more freely used on another position of need like cornerback or tight end. 

The good news for Washington is no matter which positions they target, there's a talent where they need it in each of the first three rounds of this year's NFL Draft. 

A top three group of Utah tight end Dalton Kincaid, Bergeron, and Texas A&M cornerback Jaylon Jones would be a solid trio to join the Commanders later this month. 

Similarly, a top two duo of Alabama defensive back Brian Branch and Bergeron would leave the door open to add a talented tight end like Old Dominion's Zack Kuntz while targeting a third-round edge rusher, linebacker, or another player of need.

It's another example of how this year's class is set up nicely to help Washington address critical areas of need in the NFL Draft.

Find David Harrison on the Locked On Commanders podcast or text him directly at (202) 760-2188.

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