The spotlight shines brightly on the Washington Commanders as the NFL draft approaches on April 25, with the fate of several key quarterback prospects hanging in the balance.
While the Chicago Bears are widely anticipated to select USC’s Caleb Williams as the No. 1 overall pick, speculation runs rampant regarding the Commanders’ intentions with the No. 2 pick. Even seasoned league executives confess uncertainty over which signal-caller Washington will ultimately choose.
“The QB draft is going to be wild,” remarked one team executive to The Athletic’s Jeff Howe, encapsulating the pervasive sense of unpredictability surrounding the Commanders’ decision.
With prospects like North Carolina’s Drake Maye, LSU’s Jayden Daniels, and Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy still on the board, Washington’s choice will have a ripple effect on subsequent draft picks, notably impacting the New England Patriots at No. 3.
According to a survey conducted by The Athletic among NFL executives, coaches, and scouts, opinions diverge on whom the Commanders will select. While three respondents favored Daniels, two backed Maye, and one endorsed McCarthy.
This lack of consensus extends beyond the poll, with NFL insiders offering conflicting assessments of Washington’s likely pick. ESPN’s Adam Schefter suggests signs point to Daniels, while ESPN’s Matt Miller contends that dismissing McCarthy is premature given widespread speculation within league circles.
Meanwhile, the Commanders have diligently evaluated Maye, meeting with him both before his Pro Day and at the NFL Scouting Combine. Maye, in turn, expressed admiration for Washington’s leadership, particularly head coach Dan Quinn.
Ranked atop the B/R NFL Scouting Department’s Big Board as the most pro-ready quarterback prospect, Maye garners considerable attention from Washington. However, the Commanders’ true intentions remain shrouded in secrecy, a testament to the astute management of first-year general manager Adam Peters.
As the draft looms large, all eyes remain fixed on the Commanders, whose decision will shape the landscape of the 2024 NFL season and beyond.