Caleb Williams is widely considered the favorite to be the first player taken in the 2024 NFL Draft, and there may be at least one team that will look into trading up for the USC star.
The Washington Commanders appeared to have found their quarterback of the future when Sam Howell was playing at a high level earlier this season. Howell’s play has slipped in recent weeks, however, and he was benched in Washington’s last two games. He has now lost his starting job heading into Week 17.
According to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, there is a belief around the NFL that the Commanders are “very interested” in Williams.
If the season ended today, the 4-11 Commanders would have the third overall pick in the draft. The Chicago Bears are likely going to land the No. 1 pick, which they acquired from the Carolina Panthers last year. The Panthers are 2-13 heading into Week 17. The Arizona Cardinals, who are 3-12, currently hold the No. 2 pick.
It is still unclear if the Bears plan to stick with Justin Fields in 2024. The same is true for the Cardinals and Kyler Murray. If both Chicago and Arizona commit to their current quarterbacks, the Commanders would have a far better chance of landing Williams. They may have to trade up to get him, however, which would be costly.
Even though USC fell apart during the second half of the season, Williams’ stock remains high. Some thought he recently dropped a hint that he is hoping to avoid one particular team, but he is probably willing to play for any team that wants to make him the first player off the board.
