The Washington Commanders opted not to draft a quarterback in last week’s NFL Draft. However, it was not because of a lack of consideration. According to Mike Jones of The Athletic, the Commanders were interested in trading up from the 16th overall pick and seventh with their eyes on former Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson.
The Las Vegas Raiders held the seventh overall pick. Yet, Richardson didn’t make it to the seventh pick overall. Instead, the Indianapolis Colts selected Richardson with the fourth overall pick.
Washington stayed at No. 16 and selected former Mississippi State cornerback Emmanuel Forbes.
Jones’ nugget keeps with a previous report by Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated that Commanders Vice President of Football/Player Personnel Marty Hurney advocated for Richardson.
Washington’s head coach Ron Rivera and General Manager Martin Mayhew have stressed they are confident in starting last year’s fifth-round draft pick Sam Howell at quarterback. And that still may be the case.
However, Hurney’s campaigning for Richardson shows someone within the organization views the 6-foot-4, 236-pounder as a better prospect than Howell.
Richardson is a raw talent. Yet, he has a tremendously high ceiling, showing glimpses of his brilliance in 13 starts at Florida. His athleticism is off the charts. Richardson’s development predicates on the coaching he receives, making him a more accurate passer.
The Commanders fit the bill of the necessary tools for Richardson with offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy and quarterback coach Tavita Pritchard. But Richardson is the project of Colts head coach Shane Steichen, the man greatly responsible for the development of Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts.
The Commanders would’ve had to be willing to trade up to third overall to nab Richardson. Indianapolis loved the fact Richardson fell to them at number four. Colts owner Jim Irsay maintained Indianapolis would’ve taken Richardson first overall.
Meanwhile, the Commanders apparently viewed Richardson as a can’t-miss opportunity more than a need because the team didn’t address the QB position in the draft. Washington waited until after the draft to sign former Fordham star and three-time Patriot League Offensive Player of the Year Tim DeMorat as a developmental quarterback.
Howell will enter training camp as Washington’s QB1, competing with veteran journeyman Jacoby Brissett. Brissett will push Howell, mentor him, and serve as an insurance policy. If all fails, the Commanders have a talented group of QB prospects to eye for next year’s draft, starting with DC native and Heisman winner Caleb Williams.
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