It's all hands on deck for the Washington Commanders if they want to start changing some concerning narratives. They're well on their way to achieving this feat after a sterling offseason of positive changes from top to bottom across the organization.
So many alterations bring a different - yet exciting - set of problems. They have to get on the same page quickly. There must be chemistry and strong bonds built in such a short space of time. Not easy by any stretch, but head coach Dan Quinn likes how things are unfolding up to now.
Commanders center Tyler Biadasz could shape their 2024 season
One analyst believes an overlooked arrival this offseason could hold the key to potential success. Zachary Pereles from CBS Sports named veteran center Tyler Biadasz as an under-the-radar player who could shape the 2024 season. This was thanks in no small part to his durability and expected close connection to rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels.
"Dan Quinn brought several former [Dallas] Cowboys with him to the [Washington] Commanders, but [Tyler] Biadasz has the chance to be the most impactful. Biadasz is dependable (16+ starts each of the last three seasons) and talented (2022 Pro Bowl), and he'll play a big role in No. 2 overall pick Jayden Daniels' development. While Washington's quarterback carousel gets the most attention, center (six different players in the past two seasons) has been a big issue, too."
- Zachary Pereles, CBS Sports
Biadasz made the trip to Washington with Quinn this offseason on a three-year, $29.25 million deal with a $13.5 million signing bonus and $20.7 million guaranteed. He brings accomplished production to the center position - an immediate upgrade on anything the Commanders had on their offensive line anchor during Ron Rivera's final season in 2023. There's also been a lot to like about the way he's applied himself since joining.
There's a tone-setting forcefulness to Biadasz's performance levels that's hard not to love. He was one of the standout performers on Day 2 of camp, carving out rushing lanes with ruthless efficiency and making his presence felt throughout. There's much hard work ahead, but this could be among the team's best signings when it's all said and done.
Quinn believes in Biadasz's capabilities. He wouldn't have brought him along from the Dallas Cowboys otherwise. A bigger price tag comes with increased expectations, but the former Wisconsin star's got enough experience under his belt to ensure these are met with minimal fuss.
Some significant concerns remain about the Commanders' edge protection - especially if rookie third-rounder Brandon Coleman takes longer to develop. However, the coaching staff can be confident their interior - which also features Nick Allegretti and Sam Cosmi - should be pretty solid in all disciplines.
Biadasz must communicate effectively pre-snap and block with the consistency he's displayed throughout a promising career so far. Not since Chase Roullier rose from obscurity has Washington benefitted from such consistency at the center position. Something Daniels desperately needs as he looks to take the NFL by storm in 2024.
If Biadasz meets these targets, it'll be money well spent.
