The Washington Commanders have multiple holes to fill ahead of the 2022 NFL draft. An inactive free-agency period has left Washington searching for help at wide receiver, linebacker, safety, and depth on the offensive and defensive lines.
With only six picks in the 2022 NFL draft and no third-round pick, the Commanders must take advantage of each selection, particularly in the first two rounds.
What would be Washington’s ideal top scenario with its first two draft picks later this month?
Chad Reuter of NFL.com recently named the ideal top-two picks for all 32 NFL teams. In Reuter’s exercise, it didn’t matter for the teams without a first-round pick. Reuter names the ideal top two choices for the Rams, who aren’t on the clock until No. 104 overall.
What about the Commanders?
Reuter has Washington landing Ohio State wide receiver Garrett Wilson at No. 11 overall and Georgia safety Lewis Cine at No. 47.
He’s correct. This would be a perfect scenario for the Commanders.
The trade for Carson Wentz requires Washington to find additional targets on whom he can rely. If Drake London is gone and Jameson Williams’ injury is an issue, then Wilson could be brought in to pair with two other former Buckeyes, Terry McLaurin and Curtis Samuel. Cine’s hard-hitting style and coverage ability make him a nice fit for the Commanders at free safety or nickel, depending upon where the team wants to play emerging star Kamren Curl.
The Commanders would be fine with London, Wilson, Williams, or Chris Olave at wide receiver. In watching Wilson, though, he offers ability after the catch and can get the deep ball, too. Many expect him to go inside the top 10.
Cine is the ideal safety for the Commanders. Yes, Washington re-signed Bobby McCain. However, Cine gives the Commanders options with McCain and Curl. One of the three can play the Buffalo nickel role. Cine is a versatile defender, as he brings a physical presence to the running game and he’s also dynamic in coverage.
If this scenario played out for Washington, it would have two immediate starters at positions of need.