New Washington Commanders offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy likes the new weapons on his football team. Washington is loaded at wide receiver with Terry McLaurin, Curtis Samuel, Jahan Dotson and Dyami Brown. The Commanders are in good shape at running back with Brian Robinson Jr. and Antonio Gibson.
We know of Washington’s needs on the offensive line, which will be addressed either through free agency and/or the 2023 NFL draft. While young quarterback Sam Howell is unproven, Bieniemy reportedly is prepared to with the rising second-year passer in 2023.
That leaves one position to address: tight end. The Commanders have five tight ends returning in 2023. Veteran starter Logan Thomas, John Bates, and three rising second-year players in Armani Rogers, Cole Turner and Curtis Hodges. Thomas will be 32 in Week 1 and caught just 39 passes and one touchdown in 2022. Thomas will count almost $8.7 million against the salary cap in 2023, per Over the Cap. Thomas is either a contender for a reduced salary or a possible salary-cap casualty.
What does that mean for the position?
Bates is excellent in his role. He is a reliable blocker and a capable receiver. He will not be confused for Travis Kelce. As for the three young players, all have promise but have accomplished nothing.
We know the tight end is a big part of Bieniemy’s offense. Sure, no one Washington lands in 2023 will be Kelce, but could Bieniemy use free agency as a way to upgrade the position next season?
Here are three tight ends Bieniemy could target in 2023 free agency next month.