How many times over the years have you heard, “You can’t grade a draft until you have at least three seasons of play?”
While the 2020 Washington NFL draft has brought some disappointment, this draft by no means can be called a dud or unproductive.
Yes, Antonio Gandy-Golden (4th round) is already out of the NFL, and yes, Keith Ismael (5th round) did not last long in the Burgundy and Gold.
Yes, Chase Young (1st round) has produced only 9 sacks in three seasons and yes, he was the overall second selection in the entire draft.
Yes, Saahdiq Charles (4th round) has only played in 24 games in three seasons. Yet, he has shown enough that head coach Ron Rivera still believes he and Chris Paul will battle for the starting left guard spot this fall.
Also encouraging is third-round selection, Antonio Gibson. Gibson from Memphis has rushed for 2,378 yards and caught 124 receptions for 894 yards. With the Commanders releasing J.D. McKissic, look for new offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy to readily use Gibson as the third-down back, getting the ball to him in space.
This Antonio Gibson Touchdown was NOT talked about nearly enough on Sunday…. remember the McKissic wheel route the other week where he was caught from behind? Ya me too#DynoRB2 pic.twitter.com/ewxyEAWy4h
— ᴄᴏᴅʏ ᴄᴀʀᴘᴇɴᴛɪᴇʀ (@CarpentierNFL) September 29, 2021
Khaleke Hudson (5th round, 162 overall) has been steady on special teams and showed in the season finale last season he can play more at linebacker if needed.
Seventh-round choices Kamren Curl and James Smith-Williams have been pleasant surprises who continue to contribute on defense. How often does a team have not one but two successful draft choices in the final round?
Both Curl and Smith-Williams are entering their final contract year with the Commanders. With these two being productive and reliable, the Commanders will need to get both re-signed for the 2024 season and beyond.
Who would have thought immediately after the 2020 draft, that after three seasons of play, not one but both seventh-round draft choices would be a top priority for the Commanders to resign for 2024?
Not a single one of us.