The Washington Commanders do not want to rely on rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels’ legs to keep him safe next season. However, they might not have a choice. Building a wall around the No. 2 overall pick has been a top priority this offseason. Despite adding two new starters via free agency, the Commanders have yet to decide on a left tackle to protect the elusive quarterback’s blind side.
Last season, under a new coaching staff and front office, Washington first-year starting quarterback Sam Howell was sacked 65 times, breaking the franchise record of 49. After altering starters at four line positions in 2023, the Commanders’ line saw additional alterations in 2024. They will have three new starters, including center, left guard, and left tackle. However, while the center (Tyler Biadasz) and guard (Nick Allegretti) are both known, the race for left tackle will continue throughout training camp.
As of now, the options are veteran swing tackle Cornelius Lucas, third-round selection Brandon Coleman, and Trent Scott, who has started 22 games in six NFL seasons. Of Lucas’ 47 career starts, 39 have occurred in the last five years. The Commanders did not sign a left tackle during free agency. “At that position specifically it’s going to take more time,” Quinn stated. Once the athletes are in pads, the team will have a better idea of what they are capable of during training camp. Until then, the plan is to cycle them with the original group.
“It’s still a little early to say how confident we are in anything,” offensive line coach Bobby Johnson said. “I’m pleased with the progress they’ve made. At this point, I don’t see any red flags that give me pause. But once again, it’s still early.”
While they are unsure of who will start at left tackle, Washington’s coaches do know the threat of Daniels’ legs provides a bonus to the offense as a whole.
“It can help tremendously,” said run game coordinator Anthony Lynn. “You have a quarterback who can create and move a little. You don’t need [perennial Pro Bowl tackle] Trent Williams when you have a quarterback capable of moving the pocket and changing the launch point.” Daniels averaged an NCAA-best 8.4 yards per carry on 135 carries, 77 of which were scrambles, on his way to earning the Heisman Trophy last season.
The Commanders also expect that Biadasz’s acquisition will provide a significant boost. He started the previous three seasons with the Dallas Cowboys and will assist Daniels in making protection calls.
