The Washington Commanders 2023 NFL Draft is now complete. Over the next weeks and months their rookie class will report to camps and workouts, each hoping to help the Washington Commanders retake the NFC East. Here is where the Washington Commanders 2023 NFL Draft class fits into their immediate and long-term future.
- First Round, 16th Overall: Emmanuel Forbes, CB
- Second Round, 47th Overall: Jartavius Martin, S
- Third Round, 97th Overall: Ricky Stromberg, OG
- Fourth Round, 118th Overall: Braeden Daniels, OT
- Fifth Round, 137th Overall: K.J. Henry, DE
- Sixth Round, 193th Overall: Chris Rodriguez Jr., RB
- Seventh Round, 233rd Overall: Andre Jones, Edge
Washington Commanders 2023 NFL Draft Review Grade: 7.7/10
Washington Commanders 2023 NFL Draft Review: Filling Needs
The Best Player: Emmanuel Forbes
Pundits can make a strong argument for Emmanuel Forbes being the second-best cornerback in the NFL Draft. He is a dominate cornerback who sticks to wide receivers and generally is a pest for quarterbacks to find a way around. The Commanders defence has immediately upgraded. In fact, the only reason he did not go earlier is due to his weight (170 lbs. regularly, bulked to 180 lbs for the combine). His physical play still will make injury a concern. Regardless, he is a cornerback who has the intangibles, athleticism, and finesse to shut down NFL wide receivers.
The Head-Scratcher: K.J. Henry
K.J. Henry going at pick 137, and in the only slot the Commanders made a trade for, is just a bit odd. He does not have an NFL toolkit for his pass-rushing moves and he simply struggles to rush the passer. He is likely to move to a run-defence role with limited playing time. If the Commanders drafted him to be a run-stopper, then they have their lad; if they drafted him to be a pass rusher, this is an extremely confusing selection in the fifth round. Henry is, however, strong and fits the NFL framework at 6’4”, 255 lbs. If Commanders coach him to become a better pass rusher, then he might turn into a decent NFL player amidst the Washington Commanders 2023 NFL Draft class.
The Surprise: Braeden Daniels
Braeden Daniels is another slightly head-scratching selection. He played offensive tackle at Utah, but will have to move to guard to play in the NFL. Taking such a player in the fourth round is surprising, if not confusing, when true-guards exist. However, the Commanders coaching staff might see something in Daniels that solidifies in their mind he will make an excellent NFL Guard. He is a highly athletic player who has a second-wind if he loses off the snap. He is quicker than most offensive lineman, and that quickness could translate to a snippy NFL offensive guard.
The Steal: Chris Rodriguez Jr.
Chris Rodriguez Jr. stands at a strong 5’11”, 224 lbs, capable of smashing defenders. At selection 193, he is an absolute steal. He likely fell due to some poor athletic testing during the pre-draft process. That might not matter once he puts on a Commanders uniform and takes on a role position in Washington. Rodriguez is the type of running back that teams realise they need when they play against him. Will provide a much-needed change of pace and immediately improve the running back room.
Most Likely to Turn Heads in Training Camp: Emmanuel Forbes
Forbes returns here as the player most likely to turn heads not only because of his smaller frame for an NFL cornerback, but because he is going to be that good. He is an electric playmaker and will make noticeable, stand out plays during training camp. His long-frame will result in interceptions, many of which he can turn into touchdowns with his 4.35’ 40-yard dash. Washington fans have an absolute treat waiting for them this July.
The Rest
The Washington Commanders draft was not exactly thrilling, nor was it exactly boring. They traded away a few picks, and netted seven players. Jartavius Martin will serve the Commanders as an excellent, long-term safety. He can explode to make tackles or find the football. He was not a splash prospect, but he is a solid safety who can start in week-one and should be a multiple-year starter for the Washington Commanders.
Ricky Stromberg is an athletic offensive guard who can make a day-one contribution if he improves his strength this off-season. Stromberg is a pass-protector who can develop quality run-blocking with his strong frame. Andrew Jones, the 233rd selection, is a physical linebacker who can run downhill and meet runners. He is a definitive run-defender, but his power and coverage need development if he wants to make the Commanders roster.
Main Image: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
