If you looked at the current Washington Commanders roster, what would you determine to be their most significant need?
Sure, quarterback may be the first answer. However, in the offseason, Washington’s most pressing need is fixing its offensive line. Regardless of who is at quarterback, the Commanders offensive line isn’t getting it done.
The decision to replace Brandon Scherff and Trai Turner with Trai Turner and Andrew Norwell hasn’t quite gone as planned. Center Chase Roullier’s season has been cut short in each of the last two seasons, and that position could be on the table, too. There are also long-term questions about right tackle Sam Cosmi.
Would he be better inside at guard?
Dane Brugler of The Athletic has a new mock draft. And in that mock draft he correctly identifies Washington’s need in the offensive trenches by choosing Georgia offensive tackle Broderick Jones for the Commanders at No. 20.
The Commanders need to address the offensive line in the offseason, which might include some shuffling to get the best five blockers on the field. If Sam Cosmi moves inside to guard, Broderick Jones could compete for the starting right tackle job in 2022 and be the eventual starter at left tackle.
The 6-foot-4, 311-pound Jones has the many required traits you desire at left tackle. In addition to his size and athleticism, Jones has good feet from his days as a basketball player. Left tackle Charles Leno can continue to man the left side, allowing Jones to play right tackle in 2023.
The Commanders could have as many as three new starters on the offensive line in 2023.