It’s early, but most mock drafts like two positions for the Washington Commanders: cornerback and offensive line.
In a new mock draft from Pro Football Focus, Marcus Mosher has the Commanders selecting Oregon cornerback Christian Gonzalez at No. 16 overall. This isn’t the first time the tall, rangy corner has been mocked to Washington. Daniel Jeremiah had the Gonzalez in Washington in his first mock draft.
Cornerback was a major issue for the Commanders for most of the season after they moved on from William Jackson III. But in a deep cornerback draft, expect them to target one early. Gonzalez would be an ideal pick here — he possesses the size, speed and ball skills you want from a Round 1 cornerback. He’s got all the traits to develop into a No. 1 cornerback in the NFL.
Yes, the Commanders need offensive line help. The problem here is, what if the top prospects are off the board? This draft isn’t as top-heavy with offensive line talent as recent drafts. While the depth is solid, Washington will likely fill its offensive line holes through a combination of free agency and the draft.
Gonzalez fits the profile of a player who can be a true No. 1 corner in the NFL and would give Washington three quality starting cornerbacks in 2023, alongside Benjamin St-Juste and Kendall Fuller.