How does the Carson Wentz trade affect the NFL Draft?

The Carson Wentz trade certainly shakes things up when it comes to the NFL Draft. 

First off, let’s talk about the Carson Wentz trade itself. The Commanders were always reported to have been looking around for a replacement to Taylor Heinicke, who struggled last year (20 TD and 15 INT).

However – after the Denver Broncos committed multiple pieces for Russell Wilson in a trade with the Seahawks, and Aaron Rodgers confirmed he’ll be staying in Green Bay – Washington had to find an alternative QB to pair up with the talented Terry McLaurin.

Wentz comes into a division that isn’t stacked for QB talent. Dak Prescott has talent but can’t seem to get over the hump in the playoffs, Jalen Hurts is still dividing opinion in Philly, and Daniel Jones has almost thrown as many interceptions as he has touchdowns in his last two seasons.

For the Colts, they now look to be in the hunt for their fifth QB in five years after finishing their only season with Wentz 9-8. Their receiver core isn’t fantastic, but Mo Alie-Cox at Tight End is an interesting prospect as a ‘fourth receiver’ for a new future field general.

How do the Commanders shift their focus in the NFL Draft?

It’s important to note that the Commanders have a top 10 pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, which now doesn’t have to focus on the likes of Desmond Ridder and Malik Willis.

Despite this being a draft with a lot of talented offensive guards, the O-Line isn’t an area that is desperate for improvement at FedEx Field. First off, the O Line that started the majority of last year (Leno Jr, Flowers, Roullier, Schweitzer, and Cosmi) are all on contracts expiring in three to four years. Secondly, they are all 30 and under, meaning they should be at the peak of their powers.

This means there are now two ways in which the Commanders go with their pick: Wide Receiver or defensive enforcement.