Andrew Wylie is on the move, but he will be working with a familiar face in 2023. The veteran right tackle is set to sign with the Commanders on a three-year deal worth $24M, as first noted (on Twitter) by veteran reporter Ari Meirov).
Wylie, 28, has spent all five of his career seasons with the Chiefs. That span includes 59 starts in 71 games; he operated as Kansas City’s full-time right tackle in 2022. He played out this past season on a one-year, $2.5M pact, one which proved to be a bargain for the team. Wylie played a key role in the Chiefs’ success up front in the Super Bowl, which has helped earn him this new contract.
By heading to Washington, the East Michigan product will reunite with Eric Bieniemy, who took the Commanders offensive coordinator job after holding the same title with the Chiefs. Wylie will likely be counted upon for Washington after his strong performance in 2022, but his departure — something the Chiefs wanted to avoid — is leading to a significant shake-up on their O-line.
Kansas City has reportedly agreed to terms with fellow tackle free agent Jawaan Taylor, which will give them at least one high-end player on the edge. The significant investment made in him, however, points to Pro Bowl left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. being likely to depart as well.
Wylie will give the Commanders a veteran option at the RT spot alongside swing tackle Cornelius Lucas. 2021 draftee Sam Cosmi and the recently re-signed Drew Himmelman are also in the mix as depth at the tackle spot. This addition comes on the same day that Washington has reached agreement on a deal with another O-lineman in Nick Gates. A new-look offensive front could give the Commanders a boost as they look to take a step forward in terms of production in 2023.
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