Will the Washington Commanders go cornerback or offensive line at No. 16 in the 2023 NFL draft?
The Commanders had the No. 16 pick in the 2022 NFL draft — after trading down — and selected former Penn State wide receiver Jahan Dotson. While Dotson missed some time as a rookie, that pick appears to be an excellent one.
Can Washington have similar luck in 2023?
While the Commanders should consider a quarterback if one falls, that’s not likely to happen. Washington did meet with Florida’s Anthony Richardson at the 2023 NFL combine, but it’s doubtful Richardson makes it out of the top five.
Therefore, the Commanders will likely turn to their best player available at a position of need. Fortunately, there is depth at cornerback and the offensive line in this upcoming class.
Todd McShay of ESPN released his post-combine mock draft Tuesday and slotted Illinois cornerback Devon Witherspoon to the Commanders:
Witherspoon is rising fast, and I’d expect the Commanders would be among the teams with an eye to Illinois’ pro day on Friday. He allowed 3.2 yards per target last season, second-best in the nation, and picked off three passes. I love his physicality, and Washington really needs someone who can make plays on the outside. Opponent QBs had a 70.0 QBR on throws outside the numbers last season, 23rd in the NFL, and the Commanders didn’t reach double-digit interceptions (nine). Pair Witherspoon with Kendall Fuller, and you have an improvement.
Witherspoon is a fun player to watch. Not only is his tape good, but his physical style of play matches Washington’s preference at cornerback.
While McShay mentioned Kendall Fuller, he forgot to mention Benjamin St-Juste, who had a breakout season in 2022 before injuring his ankle in Week 11.
