Despite missing out on Week 14 action, the Washington Commanders were able to get a bye and increased their chances of earning a high pick in the NFL Draft in April. Right now, where do they pick?
In Week 14, the Washington Commanders demonstrated their ability to triumph over their bye week, if such a thing is possible.
Because Washington moved its two greatest edge rushers go at the trade deadline, mock draft simulators have been firing since the white flag has been hoisted and the focus has shifted to the 2024 NFL Draft. The Commanders dropped to 4-9 after taking an additional defeat ahead of most of the league due to their ridiculously late bye week.
Consequently, Washington is the only team with the fourth overall draft selection and the rights to the player who is widely believed to be the first talent selected who isn’t Marvin Harrison Jr., Caleb Williams, or Drake Maye.
Having their pick of the crop is vital, even though the consensus views offensive tackles Joe Alt and Olu Fashanu, receivers Rome Odunze and Malik Nabers, and even quarterback Jayden Daniels as a step behind those aforementioned celebrities. The possibility to locate outstanding offensive talent is enticing in and of itself, even though the Commanders could be reluctant to choose a third starting-caliber receiver or shorten quarterback Sam Howell’s career.
Naturally, they are one game closer to moving up to a top-three selection if they are one game ahead of the group of Week 14 winners. A shot at a genuine blue-chip prospect might materialise if the Arizona Cardinals or New England Patriots win more games than Washington does the rest of the season (and some strong schedule luck goes their way).
Daniels, who just won the Heisman Trophy, is unlikely to replace Howell, but Maye or Williams may make a difference in terms of ownership and (probably) new decision-makers.
Having additional trading money also has the benefit of allowing for any changes of mind in the event that a later choice and a large return are made.
For supporters of the tank, Sunday was a resounding victory. Naturally, in December, having the fourth choice means nothing.
For supporters of the tank, Sunday was a resounding victory. Naturally, in December, having the fourth choice means nothing.
Losing to the Los Angeles Rams, Jets, San Francisco 49ers, and Dallas Cowboys at the conclusion of the season is probably what it means to be in position. A 4-13 season and a top-four pick are very likely given how well those teams are performing and how well New York’s defence matches up with Washington.
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