The Washington Commanders fill remaining roster spot by signing former third-round offensive lineman during training camp

Niang joins the Commanders at only 26 years old and brings noticeable size as well. The young veteran measures in at 6-foot-6 and 315lbs and has the opportunity to continue his development behind one of the best in the league in Laremy Tunsil. He was drafted in the third round of the 2020 NFL draft, but then he opted out of his rookie season due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

When he returned in 2021, he was announced as the starter at right tackle and started seven of the first nine games until injuries started to pile up, and his season ended when he tore his pectoral muscle in Week 17.

Since then, he's only played in 69 snaps since 2022, according to PFF. The Chiefs cut him in 2024 before they brought him back on the practice squad. Niang was also teammates with current Commanders Nick Allegretti and Andrew Wylie in 2021.

Choosing a tackle over a guard

Herbig was projected to be a backup guard this season, so why would the Commanders bring in an offensive tackle instead? That's how the roster looks with the versatility and valuable depth pieces on the offensive line now.

There's a lot more depth at the guard position, and Sam Cosmi seems to be coming back sooner rather than later, according to the progress he's been making. That allows HC Dan Quinn to play the best five guys up front and have a true backup plan in case any of the starters go down with an injury.

Wylie could start at right tackle and rotate time with rookie Josh Conerly Jr., like they did with Cornelius Lucas and Brandon Coleman last season, and Wylie can also move back inside to guard, where he has experience. Trent Scott also played well at right guard when he stepped in for Cosmi.

The Washington Commanders rebuilt the offensive line this offseason to have a well-respected starting five, but also continue to make sure the depth pieces are there to keep it intact.