In a stunning turn of events, the Washington Commanders are poised for success in the upcoming season. Despite having a new head coach and an expected rookie quarterback, they have a whopping $73 million in cap space, making them the team with the most financial flexibility in the NFL. This puts them in a prime position to bolster their roster and support their new quarterback, along with the guidance of defensive mastermind Dan Quinn. The Commanders’ defense struggled last season, allowing over 30 points per game, the highest in the league. Quinn’s expertise will be crucial in turning things around.
With such a significant amount of cap space at their disposal, the Commanders have the opportunity to completely transform their franchise. Renowned sports analyst Colin Cowherd of The Herd believes that they will surpass the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys to win the NFC East next season, thanks to their financial advantage. Cowherd also predicts that the Commanders will select Drake Maye in the upcoming draft, drawing comparisons to the talented Justin Herbert.
Cowherd explains his reasoning, stating, “Why Commanders? $75 million in cap space, love Dan Quinn, and Kliff Kingsbury as a staff. I think the Eagles and the Cowboys because of age and drama are vulnerable. I think the Commanders, we have a surprise team every year in the league, I think they get Drake Maye, I think Drake Maye is like Justin Herbert as a comp. Played in a simple college offense and will be better than people think immediately. Herbert was, CJ Stroud was, I think Drake Maye is that guy this year.”
It is clear that Cowherd has high expectations for Maye, comparing him to the impressive Herbert and predicting that he will exceed people’s expectations right from the start. With Maye on board, the Commanders could potentially secure the NFC East title, as predicted by Cowherd in his early 2024 playoff predictions.
In a bold statement, Cowherd suggests that the Washington Commanders have a chance to become one of the most improved teams in the NFL next season. Despite his flaws, Maye possesses the necessary tools to succeed. Standing tall and possessing a strong throwing arm, he also has the ability to use his legs when necessary. Maye’s performance in the 2022 season was particularly impressive, throwing for 4,321 yards, 38 touchdowns, and only 7 interceptions. Additionally, he contributed 698 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns on the ground.
Joel Klatt, host of “The Joel Klatt Show,” had nothing but admiration for the former UNC quarterback. Klatt believes that if Williams is not available in the draft, Maye would be the obvious choice for the number one pick. Klatt describes Maye as an incredibly talented individual. Klatt had the opportunity to witness Maye’s skills firsthand during the Holiday Bowl, where North Carolina faced off against Oregon. Despite the loss to the Ducks, Maye’s performance left Klatt in awe. Klatt emphasizes that Maye’s plays and throws were nothing short of sensational.
Furthermore, Klatt goes as far as to claim that Maye is superior to Josh Allen during his time at Wyoming. This comparison highlights the potential Maye possesses as he enters the NFL. However, the Washington Commanders must make a wise decision with their second overall pick if they hope to avoid another disappointing season. Acquiring a franchise quarterback is crucial for the team’s success and the key to winning games.
For Maye to transition smoothly into the NFL, it is imperative that the front office makes strategic moves during the offseason. With significant cap space available, every dollar should be invested in improving the team’s roster, regardless of who they select with the second overall pick.
Jon Conahan, an NBA and NFL reporter, covers these developments for the readers.
According to the Source heavy.com