When the Washington Commanders used a second-round pick on Sam Cosmi in 2021, they envisioned him as their right tackle for the next decade. The early returns were good, as Cosmi looked like a dominant run blocker.
However, Cosmi sometimes struggled with some of the NFL’s better pass rushers. And then there were injuries. Cosmi missed eight games of his rookie season and three in 2022.
During last season, Washington’s coaches wanted to see the 6-foot-6, 310-pound Cosmi inside at guard. Coaches saw enough to approach Cosmi about making the move full-time heading in 2023.
Cosmi, who had begun each of the last two seasons at right tackle, is now the right guard. The Commanders signed former Kansas City Chief Andrew Wylie in free agency to serve as the new right tackle.
Cosmi believes moving to guard is a good fit for him.
“I really have grasped the position,” Cosmi said. “I really feel comfortable at the position right now. I could be irreplaceable between guard and tackle if they need me to. But I’m really, really enjoying that inside being guard, physicality stuff. I think it fits my style of play better, and I’ve been enjoying the transition for sure.”
Cosmi has the right attitude, as some players would bristle at the notion of changing positions, especially when you consider the pay scale for offensive tackles.
As for his new running mate on the right side, Cosmi feels they are off to a great start.
“He’s been great; he’s a great addition, Cosmi said of Wylie. “He’s been in this offense. Andrew is my guy; we’ve gelled. It’s a great connection between me and him. We’re on the same page in this short amount of time, which is hard to do. So being able to have him and him knowing this offense like he does, it just helps us be better and grow.”
The pairing of Cosmi and Wylie could be excellent if they can stay healthy. Both players are known to be able to get out in space and block, particularly in the screen game. Under new offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, the screen game will be a big part of Washington’s offense.
Cosmi could be the key to Washington’s success on the offensive line in 2023. If he succeeds, he’s vastly improved a position that was a weakness in 2022.