After agreeing to terms with Nick Gates from the New York Giants, the Washington Commanders weren’t done adding to the offensive line.
Following his former offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, offensive lineman Andrew Wylie also agreed to join the Commanders. Wylie agreed to terms with the Commanders for three years and $24 million. Much like Gates’ contract, that’s starting money. The biggest question is, where will Wylie play in Washington?
He’s played right tackle and guard for the Chiefs. Wylie has played in 71 games in five NFL seasons, making 59 starts. In 2022, the Chiefs won their second Super Bowl, and Wylie started every game at right tackle, including the playoffs. Wylie was outstanding in the Super Bowl win over Philadelphia, blocking the Eagles’ terrific pass rush.
From all indications, Wylie will play right tackle for the Commanders, meaning third-year OL Sam Cosmi’s future will be at guard for Washington. Of course, if the Commanders add a tackle in the early rounds of the 2023 NFL draft, Wylie can also kick inside to play guard. Gates can play any of the three interior positions, while Wylie can play both guard spots and right tackle. Both linemen give head coach Ron Rivera what he loves: position flex.
We spoke with Charles Goldman, managing editor of Chiefs Wire, who gave us the following scouting report on Wylie:
“Ultimate team player, tough as nails, versatile (starts at RG, LG and RT), great character, loves Pokemon and sports trading cards,” Goldman said.
“Personally, I think right guard would be the best move for him, with the flexibility to kick out and play right tackle in a pinch. But, like, he shut out Eagles pass rushers in the Super Bowl playing right tackle, so maybe he’s viewed as a budget option there.”
Wylie sounds like a good fit for the Commanders from day one.
