The Washington Commanders selected Alabama defensive tackle Phidarian Mathis No. 47 overall in the second round of the 2022 NFL draft.
After Mathis was selected by the Commanders, he virtually met with Washington’s local media and answered questions. According to Mathis, he wasn’t expecting Washington’s call in the second round.
“Oh man. I was thinking at least third, somewhere in the third or fourth round,” Mathis said when he was asked when he expected to be drafted. “That’s just what me and my agent, that’s what we thought. That was just feedback we were getting. So, it most definitely wasn’t expected early.”
Ouch.
The Commanders probably wish Mathis hadn’t said that, although he was just honestly answering a question. Remember, on Thursday, first-round receiver Jahan Dotson also didn’t expect to go No. 16 overall.
Many will criticize the Commanders for where they selected Mathis. However, that isn’t completely fair. Everyone’s board is different and if he was the best player on the board at that time, it was the correct pick. The problem is if he wasn’t and Washington reached.
As for Mathis, he proved in 2021 what he could do with extensive playing time. His pass-rushing numbers from the interior were impressive.
Mathis also spoke of being drafted by Washington, joining fellow Washington defensive tackles Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne.
“Those are my big bros,” Mathis said. “I just talked to Jonathan Allen at the AA game and Payne, we talk all the time. It’s a blessing to be back with Payne and also getting a chance to play with Jonathan Allen. Cause he left when I was coming in into Alabama. So that’s another blessing for me. I can’t wait to get around those guys and just learn from them and also just come in and help them out.”
The most interesting aspect of Mathis speaking of his close relationship with Payne is he may be the player replacing him after the 2022 season.