The Washington Commanders continue to add pieces to the offensive line. After selecting Arkansas center Ricky Stromberg at No. 97 overall in the 2023 NFL draft Friday, the Commanders drafted Utah guard/tackle Braeden Daniels at No. 118 overall Saturday.
Daniels started in parts of four seasons at Utah, ending his career as an All-PAC-12 selection at left tackle. Daniels started at left guard, right tackle and left tackle.
As Washington looks to upgrade the offensive line, Daniels should compete to start at left guard as a rookie with Chris Paul, Saahdiq Charles and perhaps Nick Gates if he isn’t the starting center.
Daniels is a good athlete who could thrive in a zone scheme.
Here’s Lance Zierlein of NFL.com’s scouting report on Daniels.
Active, athletic offensive lineman offering room for development at guard or tackle. Daniels is an impactful down blocker with the quickness to handle zone-blocking duties. Firing out and sustaining drive blocks, however, will require much better patience and footwork to keep from whiffing or falling off blocks. Small hands prevent him from latching in as a run blocker or in pass protection, but flurrying hands and a tenacious mirror help him stay in front of rushers. Position versatility and correctable issues could raise Daniels’ draft profile as a middle-rounder with upside.
Daniels presents good value to Washington as a fourth-round pick. If he’s nothing more than a swing tackle, it’s an excellent selection. And if he becomes a starter, even better.
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