The 2022 NFL regular season is over, and we now have clarity on the first 18 picks of the 2023 NFL draft.
The Washington Commanders, who entered Sunday 7-8-1 and holding the No. 14 position, could have picked as high as No. 10 with a loss against the Dallas Cowboys and with help from others.
However, the Commanders blew out the Cowboys, 26-6, and only dropped two spots by defeating their hated rival and hold the No. 16 position in the 2023 draft. If you remember correctly, Washington picked No. 16 overall in the 2022 NFL draft after moving down five spots in a trade with the New Orleans Saints. The Commanders then picked Penn State wide receiver Jahan Dotson.
Dotson, despite missing five games, had an outstanding rookie season, catching seven touchdown passes.
What position will the Commanders target in the 2023 draft? Quarterback comes to mind, but unless Washington moves up, the top passers will be long gone. Perhaps the Commanders find a veteran in the offseason or feel comfortable with Sam Howell paired with another veteran and opt to spend their draft picks elsewhere.
Outside of quarterback, two positions come to mind: Offensive line and cornerback. The Commanders need plenty of help on the offensive line. At corner, Washington could use another starting-caliber player alongside Benjamin St-Juste and Kendall Fuller. Danny Johnson and Christian Holmes provide nice depth.
You can likely rule out Washington selecting a defensive lineman, wide receiver, safety, or running back in the first round.