Written By Adam Aniba
This has been a disappointing year for the Washington Commanders and the offensive line has been at the center of many of the team's issues.
The Commanders roster will likely look very different next season with an overhaul expected. Although starting left tackle Charles Leno Jr. has become a fan favorite for his philanthropy, his play simply has not been good enough and could be a cap causality.
In fact, backup swing tackle and unrestricted free agent Cornelius Lucas has been more effective than both tackles when he's seen action and should be brought back.
The other bookend tackle Andrew Wylie has been even worse than Leno Jr., but his $7.8M dead cap hit if released could warrant a move to guard, considering he also saw time at guard during his time in Kansas City.
As for center Tyler Larsen and guard Saahdiq Charles, they'll both be a free agents after the season. Former 3rd round selection C/G Ricky Stromberg could be giving a chance to compete for the starting center spot, but is coming of an injury and Washington could look to upgrade the position in the draft.
As for the rest of Washington's offensive lineman under contract, they could be kept around for depth.
Although former Texas Longhorns tackle Sam Cosmi was drafted in 2nd round (51st overall) in the '21 draft to be the starting right tackle, his transition inside to right guard has been one of the few bright spots this season for Washington.
Cosmi will be in his final year of his rookie deal next season and will carry a team friendly cap figure of only $2.10M.
After only allowing only 1 QB pressure and zero sacks since week 13, Cosmi should be in line for an extension.
Drafting a left tackle, right tackle and more help along the interior o-line should be a focus during the draft.
As it stands now, right guard is the one position on the offensive line that the new GM and HC should feel good about heading into the off-season with a rebuild on the horizon.
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