Isaiah Adams offers flexibility and upside to the Commanders’ offensive line

Hogs Haven takes a look at 2024 NFL Draft prospects that could contribute to the Commanders

Isaiah Adams, OT
School: Illinois | Conference: Big Ten
College Experience: Senior | Age: 23
Height / Weight: 6’4” / 315 lbs
Projected Draft Status: Rounds 3-5

Player Comparison: Aaron Banks

Player Overview

Isaiah Adams found his way to the NFL Draft by way of Ontario, Canada. There, Adams played basketball, rugby, and football. His high school team named him offensive lineman of the year three times. After some time at university in Canada, Adams transferred to Garden City Community College in Kansas in 2021. He made the most of his time there as he was named a JUCO All-American. His standout play allowed him to transfer to Illinois over offers from countless teams.

It didn’t take long for Adams to make an impact as he started immediately for Illinois at left guard. After holding down that position along with a start at left tackle, Adams earned 2022 All-Big Ten honors. In 2023, Adams was named team captain and looked to replicate his play at guard. However, poor play forced Illinois to move Adams to right tackle. It was not seamless, but by the end of the season, he performed better. He earned All-Big Ten honorable mention for his play in 2023.

Strengths

• Good-sized frame for the offensive line
• Shows good grip strength when hands land inside defender
• Does a good job of continuing to move feet on contact
• Effective sealing off running lanes and holding point of attack
• Capable lead blocker as a puller
• Plays with a little nasty, finishing blocks with authority

Weaknesses

• Footwork in pass protection is poor, leading to balance issues
• Struggles to change direction laterally and gives up counter rushes
• Lack of lateral quickness makes it hard for him to pick up stunts
• Can lunge into blocks and throw himself off balance
• High pad level makes it hard for him to maintain leverage

Let’s See His Work

Vs. Kansas (Game 2, still playing LG)

Vs. Penn State (Game 3, first game at RT)

Vs. Iowa (Game 11)

How He Fits on the Commanders

Offensive line was arguably the worst performing position group last year for the Commanders. Adam Peters and Washington’s new coaching staff went to work to improve the line in free agency by signing Tyler Biadasz and Nick Allegretti to start on the interior with Sam Cosmi. They re-signed Cornelius Lucas to battle Trent Scott as the bookend opposite Andrew Wylie. Despite those moves, it looks like this group still needs more help.

It is hard to see Isaiah Adams providing that help at any position other than guard. While he is a good athlete at his size, his best attributes suggest he’s best suited for the interior. Adams’ strength allows him to stay attached to defenders and hold his ground in the run game. His athleticism is sufficient for mirroring interior rushers and pulling and getting in space. A zone-based scheme would probably be best for Adams. Given that the Commanders used one of their Top 30 visits on him, it’s reasonable to think the team sees a role for him. That role is likely one as a high-end backup that could play either guard spot should there be an injury. He may develop into a starter-level player and give the team a rostered option if Sam Cosmi isn’t re-signed after next season.