Commanders' next move after Nate Herbig retirement is painfully obvious

The Washington Commanders were dealt a blow when Nate Herbig opted to retire just a few days into training camp. Head coach Dan Quinn acknowledged his contribution, but it exposed a potential flaw on the offensive line depth chart that must be rectified.

Herbig was coming off a torn rotator cuff, and something caused him to walk away from the game entirely. That leaves the Commanders short of dependable options on the interior, especially considering stud right guard Sam Cosmi is still recovering from a torn ACL suffered during Washington's divisional round triumph against the Detroit Lions.

Adam Peters needs to think on his feet. And the general manager would be wise to explore a notable development around the league in greater detail.

Commanders should check in on Will Hernandez after Nate Herbig's retirement

Will Hernandez announced via his Instagram that he's looking for another opportunity after getting the all clear on the health front. He, like Cosmi, sustained a torn ACL last season when he was arguably playing the best football of his professional career with the Arizona Cardinals. Based on his post, there is a hunger within that Herbig didn't necessarily have.

It wouldn't hurt the Commanders to check in and see what Hernandez is looking for. He didn't give up a sack last season before getting hurt, earning a creditable 74.2 pass-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus. The former second-round pick is also no stranger to the NFC East, having played his first four seasons with the New York Giants.

Hernandez might be looking for a chance to start. The Commanders have Brandon Coleman and Nick Allegretti as their starting guard tandem until Cosmi gets back. But if the Texas-El Paso product hits the ground running, there's nothing to suggest he cannot force his way into consideration.

If Hernandez is willing to accept a backup role initially, the chances of Washington taking the plunge become even likelier. They won't be alone in coveting the lineman if they threw their hat into the ring, but they are ready to contend right now. That makes them a more attractive destination than most.

Moving forward with the likes of Michael Deiter, Chris Paul, and Julian Good-Jones as the backup interior options is a risky strategy. Hernandez represents an instant upgrade on any of them. And who knows, perhaps he can pick up where he left off en route to prominent involvement.

Nothing ventured, nothing gained. But this would solve a new need with minimal fuss if Hernandez is willing.

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