When the Washington Commanders went on the clock at No. 47 in the second round, a YouTube live broadcast with Julie Donaldson and her team of analysts dove in, awaiting the selection.
Logan Paulsen asked to name a few names as the better possibilities to be the selection. Offensive linemen Cody Mauch, Tyler Steen, linebacker Daiyan Henley, and “Fred (Smoot), I think you will like this, man. I think we got Sydney Brown and Jartavious Martin. Both from Illinois, both really fun to watch on film.”
Suddenly the card was already submitted, and Donaldson read the name live, “Jartavius Martin.” Paulsen did not hesitate to respond, “Oh, that’s a bad man right there.”
Paulsen had again nailed it as he often does. The Commanders had chosen Martin. Paulsen said he believed Martin really was the best player left on the Commanders board at this time.
We’re about to roll!!
Twitter – Facebook – YouTube@Commanders pic.twitter.com/znoAY4tkPj— Julie Donaldson (@juliedonaldson_) April 28, 2023
Santana Moss asked if the selection of Martin was “Kam Curl insurance” if the Commanders cannot sign Curl to a contract extension.
Smoot relayed to the fans watching they need to realize 70% of the guys drafted these next two days will not be in the league in four years. So why would the Commanders reach to fill a need? No, they need to take the best player available when selecting early in a draft at No. 47. Paulsen echoed you don’t want to reach and devalue the No. 47 pick.
Moss reminded fans that those who might be upset because Washington did not select a linebacker that the team plays more packages with more defensive backs. Therefore, this pick probably makes more sense for the packages they play.
Paulsen assured fans there are offensive linemen that the Commanders will be able to select later.
But he reminded fans the draft has to fall to you, meaning that, of course, there were offensive linemen they would have loved to have drafted, but other teams in front of the Commanders wanted those players, so they are gone.
Thus the Commanders have to go with better players that fall to you. Smoot echoed this sentiment take the draft as it comes to you; get players who can contribute now.
Donaldson reminded viewers that Bobby McCain is no longer with the team, and he played many snaps the last two seasons, so the Commanders really need to ensure they can plug in players who can contribute this season where McCain did in the past.
