For a few minutes on Sunday, those wanting the Washington Commanders to tank and lose their sixth straight game were concerned.
Throughout Sunday’s game against the New York Jets, it didn’t look like Washington had a chance. Down 27-7 midway through the third quarter, head coach Ron Rivera benched quarterback Sam Howell, looking to give the offense a spark with veteran Jacoby Brissett.
Brissett, just like last week, had the Commanders marching back. He led three consecutive touchdown drives to give Washington a late 28-27 lead. The Commanders couldn’t hold the lead and New York kicker Greg Zuerlein drilled a 54-yard field goal with five seconds remaining to give the Jets a 30-28 victory.
Those hoping for a tank and no more Washington wins were relieved. The Commanders lost their sixth straight and fell to 4-11.
Therefore, Washington held the No. 4 position in the 2024 NFL draft order. There were two games remaining on Sunday that could impact the Commanders.
First, the Arizona Cardinals lost to the Chicago Bears and continued to hold the No. 3 position. On Sunday night, the Patriots, currently in the No. 2 position, upset the Denver Broncos and improved to 4-11, dropping from the No. 2 position to No. 4.
That means the Commanders moved up to No. 3 with help from New England.
Here’s the current draft order, according to Tankathon.
Everyone knows where you pick in the NFL draft doesn’t determine success. Washington is proof. The Commanders have blown numerous high picks over the years.
Things have changed now. Washington will have a new regime. The Commanders will have an actual GM — not a coach-centric model. There will be no more of the owner stopping by the draft room telling the football people who the pick would be.
Still, it guarantees nothing. But it does give you options. The higher you pick, the better the chance to land one of the draft’s top passers or another elite player. Or, you have a better chance of moving down and landing a bounty of picks.
It’s good to have options. And if the Commanders lose out, they’ll have options.