The Washington Commanders are marching into a new era (finally!). Last April, Josh Harris and group sent Dan Snyder packing and soon after the 2023 season he began the process of revamping the organization. Harris and his group immediately hired General Manager Adam Peters and Head Coach Dan Quinn now charged with leading the Commanders into the future.
The work began with hiring Kliff Kingsbury as the Offensive Coordinator and play caller, Defensive Coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. and their support staff. In March free agency began so I will highlight some notable players that were let go and aquired to the roster that have or could have fantasy football relevance.
Let Go: Sadly, Curtis Samuel, a trustworthy and competent receiver signed with Buffalo, who was viable as a bye week flex. Antonio Gibson, an under-utilized pass catching running back went to the New England Patriots as a second running back.
Off-season signings: The Commanders signed veteran tight end Zach Ertz to a one year deal. I believe he was signed to add experience and help the young tight end room and a rookie quarterback. Let’s hope the 33 year old still has some gas in the tank to make a few big big plays until Ben Stinnott or Cole Turner grow into their role. Running back Austin Ekeler is now a Washington Commander folks. A top fantasy football player for years, a round 1 or 2 pick in drafts is this years running back 25. Brian Robinson and Austin Ekeler will likely share the backfield. The Commanders also signed a quick capable wide receiver in Olamide Zaccheaus to add depth behind Terry McLaurin and the receiving core. Washington made many free agency moves that bolstered the lines to help the fantasy relevant players. The one thing missing for fantasy football purposes is a quarterback. The Commanders then prepared for the draft.
The Commanders had the #2 pick in the draft and chose Heisman Trophy winner 6’4”, 210 pound Jayden Daniels out of LSU. He is an elite athlete and when he runs he’s a natural. He has speed and burst and it looks effortless. This ability raises his floor but he also has a feel to know what each throw needs to hit his receivers in stride. Hopefully he will learn to not hold on to the ball too long and take those big hits.
This sums up the beginning and hopefully a winning strategy for the Commanders in the near future. Are they on the right track? As they say “Time will tell”. As for me I choose to believe and have faith in the front office, the coaches, their supporting staff and the players.
