Tyler Guyton would be a worthy replacement for left tackle Charles Leno for the Washington Commanders, even if trading back into the first round of the 2024 NFL draft would cost them two second-round picks.
Brent Sobleski of Bleacher Report lays up the scenario. The 36th and 40th picks, in his opinion, “could package” for the Commanders “to move back up.”
“Tyler Guyton of Oklahoma might be the best option for them,” Sobleski thinks. His transition from right to left tackle is a perfect fit for him because of his agility and footwork.
To position such a physical specimen as Guyton at the centre of a reorganised offensive line would be a wise decision on the part of the Commanders. especially considering the likelihood that they will select a potential franchise quarterback with the second-overall pick in the whole draft.
Tyler Guyton Trade Would Be Welcome News for Rookie QB
The Commanders need improved front-row coverage regardless of who that rookie signal-caller turns out to be—Jaden Daniels, Drake Maye, or perhaps the next Kirk Cousins. After allowing 65 sacks to be given up by the line the previous season, Leno was let go, and guard Nick Allegretti and centre Tyler Biadasz were added.
Right guard Sam Cosmi, a rare star from the previous season, has joined the new faces, strengthening the inside. However, there is still worry about Washington’s front five’s edges.
After three seasons as the starting quarterback, Leno is no longer with us, and Andrew Wylie has not lived up to expectations. Given those two concerns, Guyton would be a valuable addition to any costly draft-day transaction.
According to PFF College, he was perfect last season when it came to pass protection for the Sooners.
Guyton, who stands 6-foot-6 and weighs 306 pounds, has the bulk to prevail in close quarters combat, but his fast feet distinguish him in this class. “Guyton’s foot speed and stride length for a player of his size are impressive, allowing him to mirror without overextending,” Pro Football Focus wrote. He can release the ball rapidly, which gives him a powerful punch upon making contact.
Guyton is also sufficiently mobile to matter in space. That makes him a possible asset for the Zone-based running game that Kliff Kingsbury, the Commanders’ offensive coordinator, is expected to implement.
Despite the fact that acquiring Guyton will require forfeiting valuable draft capital, there are several reasons to do so. He’s a common late-first round selection among writers of mock drafts.
Among them is The Athletic’s Dane Brugler, who projects the 22-year-old to the Dallas Cowboys 24th overall. Guyton, meanwhile, is projected by Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports to enter the Green Bay Packers one pick later.
Commanders Can’t Risk Not Replacing Charles Leno
Leaving this draft without a credible option on the blindside would be too big of a risk for the Commanders. Especially since the team owns enough draft ammunition to either put together a trade for a highly-touted prospect like Guyton or sit tight and select a less-heralded tackle with sleeper potential.
Owning two second-rounders, three third-round picks and a pair of choices in the fifth round affords the Commanders flexibility. They could package a second and a third to move back into the opening round or they could use a third and fifth to earn a late second-rounder.
There are some options, such as taking Houston tackle Patrick Paul and staying pat at 36. Brugler supports it and would match the youngster with Chris Paul, the current Commanders’ player, who is his brother.
The Commanders need a plan, whatever it is, to ensure that Leno is sufficiently replaced and to protect the prospects of a rookie passer.
