In a strategic move to bolster their offensive line and provide enhanced protection for franchise quarterback Jayden Daniels, the Washington Commanders have drafted Oregon offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. with the 29th overall pick in this year’s NFL draft.
The selection was announced Thursday night amidst enthusiastic reactions at the team facility, an indication of the high regard in which Conerly is held by the organization.
General Manager Adam Peters expressed his excitement, noting that Conerly was a coveted addition. “We were all just ecstatic to acquire him,” Peters stated. “He’s the complete package with incredible athletic abilities, remarkable footwork, and strong lower-body structure, making him exceptionally talented for his size.”
Conerly becomes the latest asset in the Commanders’ quest to build a formidable offense around Daniels, who faced three sacks during the NFC title game loss against Philadelphia, the eventual Super Bowl champions. This pick aligns with Washington’s strategy of fortifying their front line, which previously involved acquiring standout left tackle Laremy Tunsil from Houston and trading for wide receiver Deebo Samuel.
“Our focus is on optimizing our quarterback’s performance and elevating the entire team’s capabilities,” Peters said.
Selecting Conerly comes on the heels of the New York Giants, division rivals, choosing edge rusher Abdul Carter with their third pick. Conerly shone in Oregon’s previous season match-up against Penn State, competing directly with Carter and cementing his value to the Commanders. “His one-on-one with Abdul Carter, one of the top pass rushers in the draft, was noteworthy,” Peters emphasized. “He held his ground impressively.”
A testament to his skills, Conerly, towering at 6-foot-5 and weighing 311 pounds, played 14 games as a junior left tackle for the Ducks last season. Hailing from Seattle, Conerly expressed his enthusiasm for joining the Commanders, especially stepping up to protect a quarterback of Daniels’ caliber.
“I’m eager to get on the field and protect one of the best,” Conerly remarked.
His achievements include being a third-team AP All-America selection and first-team all Big Ten. While initially poised for the left side, there’s potential for him to shift to tackle on the right following spring camp developments, adding versatility to the Commanders’ line-up.
“Wherever I’m needed, that’s where I’ll go,” Conerly assured, showing no reservations about shifting to right tackle if necessary.
Opting for offensive reinforcement, the Commanders bypassed prospects for their secondary, linebacker, or defensive end needs. They remained firm on their position rather than trade back in the draft to accumulate future picks.
“We received numerous trade offers while on the clock,” Peters acknowledged. “Missing out on Josh Conerly was not a risk worth taking for us.”
Team co-owner Magic Johnson showed his support through social media, applauding the choice of Conerly. “Commanders Nation, I’m thrilled about our selection of OT Josh Conerly Jr. from Oregon. Welcome to the DMV!” he shared.
Daniels was informed of the selection in the midst of the night, receiving a call which momentarily interrupted his sleep but left him content. “He’s pleased,” Peters confirmed.
The 29th spot marks the latest in recent years that Washington has awaited a draft pick since 2014’s No. 44, following past trades that altered their first-round assets. With Tunsil and Samuel already in their ranks, the Commanders have four remaining picks in this draft: one each in the second (61st), fourth (128th), sixth (205th), and seventh (245th) rounds. Peters conveyed no urgency to skew their focus towards defensive enhancements.