The Washington Commanders are still focusing on the offensive line ahead of next month’s 2023 NFL draft.
Washington, which has signed three offensive linemen since the start of free agency, still needs to add talent to a group that struggled in 2022. Nick Gates and Andrew Wylie are expected to start for the Commanders in 2023, while Trent Scott will serve as a backup if he makes the team.
That means Washington should absolutely continue to add young talent to the trenches. The positive of adding potential starters in free agency is that the Commanders do not have to reach for an offensive lineman at No. 16. If Washington goes cornerback in round one, it can look to add an offensive lineman in round two.
An offensive lineman like Steve Avila of TCU.
The consensus All-American was a three-year starter for the Horned Frogs and has started at four positions in his college career. In 2022, he started all 15 games at left guard. There’s a hole at left guard for Washington, with veteran Andrew Norwell, Saahdiq Charles and Chris Paul among those expected to compete to start.
In 2021, the 6-foot-3, 332-pound Avila started 11 games at center. With head coach Ron Rivera loving position-flexible players, Avila could be a prime target for the Commanders in the second round.
So, it’s no surprise that Washington is bringing Avila in for one of its top 30 visits.
Former #TCU offensive lineman Steve Avila has Top-30 visits set up with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Detroit Lions, Dallas Cowboys, Arizona Cardinals and the Washington Commanders.
Projected Day Two pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
— Ryan Roberts (@RiseNDraft) March 29, 2023
Avila could start immediately at one of the guard spots for the Commanders, while Gates or Chase Roullier start at center. It’s no guarantee Roullier returns, but if he does, he will be in the mix to start. Avila could also be Washington’s future center, with Gates shifting to guard.
Avila is a powerhouse and moves well laterally. He would be an outstanding pickup for Washington.