The Washington Football Team reported to Richmond for the beginning of training camp on Tuesday. The team made several roster moves before practice begins on Wednesday.
One of those moves was presumed starting right tackle Cornelius Lucas beginning camp on the reserve/COVID-19 list.
While that’s bad news for the veteran Lucas, it is potentially big news for second-round pick Samuel Cosmi.
The 6-foot-6, 309-pound rookie ran with the second team at right tackle during the spring, while Lucas was with the first team. Coaches always expected the two to compete in training camp, with Lucas going in as the starter.
During his time at Texas, Cosmi played right tackle before transitioning over to left tackle. Some believe that’s the plan with Washington. But, for now, Cosmi must earn the right tackle position.
It’s not known how long Lucas will be out. Hopefully, it’s just a few days. But those few days could be huge for Cosmi. He can show coaches he can hold his own against Washington’s outstanding edge rushers in practice. If he can do that, the job could be his to lose.
Lucas played well last season at left tackle. Was he a star? No. However, he wasn’t nearly as bad as some in the fan base insinuated. Lucas deserves an opportunity to start. Unfortunately, a prolonged absence could be all that Cosmi needs to get ahead of Lucas to start at right tackle.
Regardless of who wins the job, Washington will enter 2021 with terrific depth at offensive tackle.