Another year has gone, and the Commanders still need a solidified, starting-caliber quarterback (QB). However, this team has more problems than just QB. Outside of wide receiver, all positions could use depth or upgrade. Chase Young will need to bounce back from injury, and the receivers must make whichever QB is throwing to them look good.
QB should be the first issue addressed by the Commanders. Carson Wentz is out and Taylor Heinicke has all the heart. Sam Howell could be the answer, as he had a strong showing in the last game of the season. If the Commanders do not get one of the top QBs, they will likely go with Howell, and none of the top QBs in free agency are looking the Commanders’ way.
In free agency, the Commander’s only concern is getting Daron Payne back under contract. Payne had a terrific year and will either be granted a franchise tag or get a bag. Having Chase Young back should free Payne up even more. Having both guys at full power could lead to both defenders having double-digit sacks.
Once the QB is solidified, and Payne is locked up, the draft must be used on corners and both sides of the line. Cam Smith, Christian Gonzalez, and Joey Porter Jr. could step in on day one. The Commanders could make an exciting selection: the top TE, Michael Mayer. Logan Thomas is aging and will have to be replaced eventually. Mayer would be a great addition to a pass-catching group already sporting Terry McLaurin, Jahan Dotson, and Curtis Samuel. Going corner first is wise, as this is a deep TE class. It will just depend on how the Commanders have these prospects ranked.
The addition of a TE and CB will help this team tremendously. The Commanders competed until the end for a playoff spot last year, and anyone watching could tell that the only big miss was the QB play. If Sam Howell is truly an upgrade from Taylor Heinicke, this team will be primed for a playoff spot. However, it will be challenging, as every other team in this division made the playoffs last year.