The Washington Commanders presently have the second pick in the 2024 NFL draft and are anticipated to select a quarterback.
“I’d say it’s reasonable to expect us to take a quarterback,” Washington head coach Dan Quinn told NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
The Chicago Bears, who have the first pick, are widely expected to select USC quarterback Caleb Williams. The Commanders are expected to choose between LSU’s Jayden Daniels and North Carolina’s Drake Maye.
According to Pelissero, the Commanders could surprise many by picking Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy.
“When I’ve had conversations here, with executives from other teams that know (new Commanders GM) Adam Peters well and know the situation well,” Pelissero was quoted as saying. “The most popular answer for what they do at No. 2 is J.J. McCarthy.”
McCarthy was projected as a mid-to-late first-round choice during the season, but his stock rose after leading the Michigan Wolverines to an undefeated season and national championship. McCarthy’s value has also risen further as a result of his good performances at the NFL Scouting Combine and Michigan Pro Day.
Quinn’s ambiguity about when or who the Commanders will select as a quarterback adds to the mystery around their draft strategy. There have been indications that the Commanders are also taking calls from other clubs hoping to advance in the draft.
The Minnesota Vikings are looking for a quarterback after losing Kirk Cousins to the Atlanta Falcons in free agency. They signed Sam Darnold, but he isn’t seen as a long-term option. The Vikings, who currently have the Nos. 11 and 23 picks, may package them and move up.
The New York Giants, with the sixth pick, appear to have soured on Daniel Jones and could be interested in Daniels or Maye. They have also been associated to McCarthy.
Jarrett Stidham is the only quarterback on the Denver Broncos’ current roster, after Russell Wilson was released earlier this month. However, the Broncos have the 12th pick and would have to move up if they wanted Daniels or Maye.
The NFL Draft takes place April 25-27.
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