The offensive line was one of Washington’s most significant concerns heading into the offseason last year. General manager Adam Peters agreed, signing two new starters on the first day of free agency.
Still, fans wondered, “Who would play left tackle?”
Peters addressed left tackle in the 2024 NFL draft, choosing TCU offensive lineman Brandon Coleman in the third round. Coleman rotated with veteran Cornelius Lucas early in the season before taking over and starting 12 games.
Washington’s offensive line surprised everyone in 2024. However, throughout the second half of the season, outside of quarterback Jayden Daniels, the Commanders struggled to run the ball. And in the NFC championship game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Coleman struggled with Philly’s speed off the edge.
So, while the offensive line took a big step forward in 2024, there is more work to do. In his first mock draft for 2025, Daniel Jeremiah of the NFL Network has Washington selecting Ohio State offensive tackle Josh Simmons with the No. 29 overall pick.
The Commanders’ offensive line has played well above expectations, but I think they need to upgrade the talent to protect Jayden Daniels going forward.
Simmons, 22, spent his first two seasons at San Diego State before transferring to Ohio State ahead of the 2023 season. He started every game for the Aztecs as a redshirt freshman in 2022 at right tackle. In 2023, Simmons started 13 games at left tackle and every game in 2024 until an injury prematurely ended his season.
Simmons could allow the Commanders to move Coleman to right tackle — Andrew Wylie is a free agent — or kick him inside. Many teams thought Coleman’s NFL future was guard.
Regardless of their plans for Coleman, the Commanders still need offensive line help and Simmons would be a great place to start.