The article emphasizes the Washington Commanders' need to focus on acquiring interior defensive linemen in the upcoming draft, despite past investments in the position. While their defensive line holds numerous former first-round picks, they struggled to stop the run in the 2024 season, ranking poorly in run defense metrics. The author argues that focusing on past investments is misguided and highlights the necessity of enhancing the depth and effectiveness of the defensive line to improve overall team performance, especially against the run.
Despite having more former first round picks than any position group, the Commanders did not field a particularly imposing defensive line in 2024, particularly in stopping the run.
The Commanders' rush defense ranked 30th in total yardage allowed and 28th in opposing rushers' Yards/Attempt, underscoring the team's inefficiency against the run.
Rush defense starts up front, and the Commanders' defensive tackles were particularly deficient in stopping the run, highlighting a need for better talent in the draft.
Daron Payne was Washington's most effective interior defender against the run with a 7.0% Run Stop Rate, but this was less than half of top-ranked defenders.
Collection
[
|
...
]