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The NFL combine is in the rearview mirror, pro days are winding down and top-30 visits are in full swing. For most NFL teams, we are beginning to better understand which positions individual teams are targeting in the first round.
The Washington Commanders need help at multiple positions. Washington could use help at wide receiver, linebacker, guard, cornerback and safety. Before the trade for Carson Wentz, the quarterback position would have been No. 1 on this list. However, after that trade, the Commanders are no longer in the market for a quarterback in the early rounds.
Todd McShay released his latest mock draft Tuesday and gives Washington’s offense the help it needs at No. 11 overall by selecting Ohio State wide receiver Chris Olave.
Let’s get new Washington quarterback Carson Wentz a second high-end target beyond Terry McLaurin (who is potentially headed toward free agency next March). Olave is a smooth route runner with soft hands and excellent speed. Pairing him with McLaurin — his former Ohio State teammate — would immediately challenge NFC East defensive backs and open things up for Curtis Samuel out of the slot.
Olave and McLaurin would instantly transform Washington’s wide receiver group into one of the better in the NFC. A healthy Curtis Samuel would be a game-changer with his versatility.
McShay’s mock draft also included the second round. Did he have Washington landing an inside linebacker in round two? No, instead, McShay chose depth at corner with Auburn’s Roger McCreary.
Depth at cornerback behind William Jackson III and Kendall Fuller remains a concern for the Commanders, and McCreary excels in press-man coverage and has the ball skills to make big plays. He broke up 15 passes last season. But he will have to improve against the run, and some questions remain about his speed.
While not landing an inside linebacker early would be disappointing for Washington fans, adding Olave and McCreary would be a win for the Commanders.