Commanders Sign Cornelius Lucas; Replacing Charles Leno Jr.?

The Washington Commanders are signing a familiar face in Cornelius Lucas.

The Washington Commanders are bringing back one of their own.

According to Washington Post reporter Nicki Jhabvala, the Commanders are re-signing veteran tackle Cornelius Lucas to a one-year deal.

The 10th-year offensive tackle has been serviceable whenever he's had to fill in over the last four seasons for Washington. 

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The Athletic ranked Lucas fourth among the Commanders' pending free agents and noted he could have a chance to start.

"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."

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With Leno Jr. cut, Lucas now becomes the favorite to start for the Commanders next season. However, there's a high chance the team drafts a rookie who has the potential to compete alongside Lucas for a starting role.