Commanders Trade Up, Pick Franchise Quarterback in Latest Mock Draft

In The Draft Network's latest mock draft, the Washington Commanders make a bold move to find their franchise quarterback. Is trading up the best path forward for Washington?

Everybody has their opinion on how this year’s quarterback class steps up. Unfortunately for the masses at home, those personal rankings hail in comparison to the Chicago Bears, who control this year’s NFL Draft.

Taking their pick of the litter with the No. 1 pick likely means taking USC quarterback Caleb Williams. But the decision to trade down and back Justin Fields or select a separate passer remain distinct possibilities, too.

Should the Washington Commanders capitalize on the Bears’ plethora of options?

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In The Draft Network’s latest mock draft, Washington becomes the aggressor, trading up with Chicago to take control of the draft and select their franchise quarterback.

Unsurprisingly, that means taking Williams first overall.

“The chance to draft one of the most physically gifted quarterbacks in the past decade – who is also from the DMV area – is too much to pass up on for a new ownership group that understands winning games and selling tickets,” The Draft Network wrote. “This is the type of excitement this Commanders organization is looking for.

“A few years from now, the Commanders’ organization will say that this trade-up changed their entire organization for the better.”

That may be an optimistic outlook on the risky investment that is a first-round quarterback, but it’s hard not to get excited watching Williams play. His out-of-structure prowess is second to none in recent years and he has one of the most elastic arms in the sport, making him a playmaker from any circumstance.

Sure, there are some concerns about transitioning to NFL pockets and timing, but the tools are there to be one of the league’s elite.

Undoubtedly, if Williams is as good as the hype dictates – or anywhere close – it doesn’t matter what Washington would hypothetically give up in a trade. However, his fate as a franchise quarterback isn’t certain, and it’s worth wondering if a trade is worth it given the selection of passers available at No. 2.

Presuming Williams goes first, UNC's Drake Maye and LSU's Jayden Daniels present as strong contenders for the next pick. Maye specifically has seen a growing share of the QB1 vote, boasting elite arm talent and enough athleticism to stay afloat. His risks are different from Williams, and perhaps more acceptable given the prototypical build he comes in.

NFL Mock Draft: Commanders Take Lamar Jackson-Like QB

The decision to call Chicago hoping to strike a deal will hinge on these team’s evaluations of Williams and Maye and what the difference may cost in draft capital. If either team is content with giving up – or rejecting – any amount to take the passer they feel is the class’ best, we’ll know by the time the clock starts on the Commanders’ pick.