With just over one month until the 2023 NFL draft, all 32 teams are hosting prospective draft picks on top 30 visits or holding private workouts for them.
The Washington Commanders have scheduled a few top 30 visits thus far, emphasizing the offensive line. That’s not surprising, considering Washington’s need there.
Another position some feel is a need is tight end. However, Commanders head coach Ron Rivera has praised his tight ends: Logan Thomas, John Bates, Armani Rogers, Cole Turner and Curtis Hodges. Of the three, Thomas is the veteran. Many believe Thomas could be a salary cap casualty in the offseason, but Rivera has praised him.
Thomas tore his ACL in December 2021 but returned last summer. Thomas struggled last season as a receiver and blocker, but coaches were encouraged by his late-season progress. He’s also a tremendous leader.
Bates is entering his third season and is more of a blocker. Rogers, Turner and Hodges are all second-year players with length and athleticism. While there are reasons to be excited about them, they have yet to prove anything. That’s why some are giving the Commanders a tight end in the first round of some mock drafts.
Washington has been checking out tight ends, too, but not necessarily the elite prospects. According to Aaron Wilson, the Commanders held a private workout for Michigan tight end Joel Honigford.
Michigan @UMichFootball tight end Joel Honigford had private workouts this week with #Commanders and #Saints, per a league source
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) March 23, 2023
Honigford is a late-round prospect, possibly even an undrafted free agent, but there is intrigue. In six seasons at Michigan, the former high school quarterback only caught one pass for 10 yards. However, he was used often as a blocker, where he excelled. So that part is interesting.
Washington likely wanted to see Honigford work out to see what type of athleticism he has. He didn’t necessarily test well at Michigan’s pro day. Honigford is 6-foot-5, 260 pounds.
It will be interesting to follow the remainder of Washington’s visits and workouts.