Getty The Washington Commanders can sign a Dan Quinn favorite in free agency to "mentor" CB Emmanuel Forbes.
New Commanders coach Dan Quinn has a type when it comes to his cornerbacks, and the NFL Combine showcased more than a few players who meet his criteria, including a Clemson star with the fastest 40-yard-dash time.
Tall and long-limbed is an understatement when it comes to his projections. There are exceptions to every rule but certain measurables matter to the new head man. Quinn has historically preferred defensive players with long arms — many of 34 inches and up, the Dallas Morning News observed in 2021.
Now, Washington must find their starting quarterback with the early draft capital they possess, so landing one of the top corners early feels unlikely.
With the Commanders having two second and two third-round picks by trading their starting defensive ends last season, jumping back into the first round could be an option if Washington covets a specific player.
Could a Top Cornerback Fall Far Enough for Washington?
The second day of the NFL Scouting Combine took place and a track meet broke out instead. First place goes to Clemson cornerback Nate Wiggins, who ran the only sub 4.3 40-yard dash, clocked in at an official time of 4.28 seconds. Unfortunately, he injured himself and his day ended early.
Toledo cornerback Quinyon Mitchell also posted a fast 40-yard-dash time, running an official 4.33. While he is checking every block, players who come from smaller schools are often questioned about the level of competition they faced.
Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold ran a somewhat underwhelming 4.5 40 time. Every other aspect of his combine was impressive.
The other Alabama cornerback, Kool-Aid McKinstry did not participate at the combine after doctors found a broken bone in his foot that will require surgery. McKinstry has the longest arm length of the four, at 32 inches.
A deeper draft than usual with questions about all the available top corners could drop a prospect further down the draft. Drafting a corner that could team up nicely opposite Commanders second-year corner Emmanuel Forbes Jr. would be a great way to resurrect a pass defense that gave up the most passing yards and touchdowns in the league during the 2023 season.
Day 2 Options That Could Intrigue Dan Quinn
If the team opts to stay and simply take the best available players, the corners that fit what Quinn wants to accomplish can be narrowed down even further.
A solid second-day prospect that could be available when the Commanders get back on the clock is Missouri cornerback Ennis Rakestraw. A 4.51 40-time might drop his value, but using a Day 2 pick for makes sense for Washington.
Oregon cornerback Khyree Jackson is another defensive back that could end up in Washington. His 32 3/4-inch arm length is the kind of trait that could garner extra attention from Quinn. The fact that he stands 6-foot-4 conjures memories of larger cornerbacks Quinn has worked with in the past.
And Mississippi State cornerback Decamerion Richardson fits the mold of a Quinn cornerback. The 6-foot-2, 188-pound defensive back ran a blazing 4.34 forty-yard dash at the combine, good for third best in his class. He also officially measured in with a 32 3/8-inch arm length, automatically putting him in the conversation as a guy Quinn could be interested in.
With many roster holes to fill, hitting on draft picks will be critical to the success of this franchise. Landing a starting cornerback would go a long way toward fixing what ails the Commanders.