The Washington Commanders are taking a unique approach in evaluating top quarterback prospects ahead of the 2024 NFL draft. In a surprising move, they are hosting four potential picks at the same time.
According to reports, LSU’s Jayden Daniels, North Carolina’s Drake Maye, Michigan’s JJ McCarthy, and Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. will all be visiting the Commanders on Tuesday and Wednesday. This decision to bring in all four quarterbacks simultaneously has raised eyebrows and sparked speculation about the team’s intentions.
It is unclear why the Commanders have opted for this unconventional strategy. Some believe that owner Josh Harris, general manager Adam Peters, and head coach Dan Quinn may have something up their sleeves. Perhaps they are looking to closely compare the prospects’ behaviors or even have them compete in a unique challenge to determine the best fit for the team.
Washington is expected to select a quarterback with the No. 2 overall pick in the draft. Following the trade of Sam Howell, the team is in need of a franchise signal-caller, and all signs point to them addressing this need in the draft.
With the Chicago Bears likely to take USC’s Caleb Williams with the first pick, the Commanders will have their choice of the remaining top prospects. This puts Daniels, Maye, McCarthy, and Penix in direct competition for the coveted spot, while Oregon’s Bo Nix is left on the outside looking in.
Meanwhile, the New England Patriots, who hold the No. 3 pick, have also shown interest in the same group of quarterbacks, albeit not at the same time. It seems that the Commanders’ decision to host all four prospects simultaneously is a move that sets them apart from the rest of the league.