If the Washington Commanders want to improve on their terrible 4-13 record, they must make changes this summer. With the second pick in the 2024 NFL draft, the Commanders are expected to select a quarterback. Protecting a young quarterback is one of the most effective methods to help them flourish.
The Commanders allowed 65 sacks, the second most in football last season, so adding offensive line help is a priority.
This summer, they will have the option to draft, trade for, and sign offensive line help. According to Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report, the Commanders may be among the teams interested in a player of David Bakhtiari’s calibre.
“The Washington Commanders allowed 65 sacks in 2023 and will presumably look to protect a new quarterback next season. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns lost their top three tackles to injury in 2023 and may want an insurance policy coming into the summer.
Bakhtiari is regarded as one of the finest in football, but his performance in just 13 games over the last three seasons may have the Commanders concerned about adding him. He is due $10.7 million next season and will become an unrestricted free agency in 2025.
David Bakhtiari’s Health Update
Bakhtiari suffered a season-ending knee injury and aims to return fully in 2024. The five-time All-Pro has not been on the field in recent seasons, which is cause for concern given how much money he is owed next season.
However, there could be a circumstance in which the Commanders are willing to take a chance and hope that he would remain on the field for them. If he does, whoever they select as their next quarterback will be in a lot better position than Sam Howell was in 2023.
Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst said the following, according to Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk:
“We’re still at the very beginning stages of looking at how we’re going to move forward with all that,” he said. “Obviously, David has had a tremendously hard stretch with the injuries. He’s undergoing extensive surgery to regain his ability to play. That is being monitored. I know he’s working his tail off. We’ll make those decisions once we’ve gotten farther down the road and seen where he is in terms of health.”
Bakhtiari’s return to the Packers does not appear to be guaranteed.
What Bakhtiari Would Present to the Commanders
David Bakhtiari would deliver the Washington Commanders everything they lacked in 2023. Next season, all this club needs is a true offensive tackle who can block for the quarterback while also improving the run game.
If he joined the Commanders and dealt with his injuries, he could at least help the younger players. Washington is in a situation where they need to bring in veterans to not only improve their on-field performance but also teach their younger players what they need to do to achieve at this level.
If the Packers release him, they will save $20.9 million in salary space. It’s not a guarantee, but it seems likely. This action could benefit the Commanders in 2024 and beyond.
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