Braeden Daniels played three positions during his college career at Utah. Daniels began at guard before moving to right tackle and then left tackle during his final season in 2022.
On Saturday, Daniels was a fourth-round pick of the Washington Commanders.
At 6-foot-4, 294 pounds, multiple draft analysts believe Daniels’ best NFL position would be at guard, but could also play swing tackle. But it didn’t sound like too many believed he’d be a starting offensive tackle at the next level.
Commanders head coach Ron Rivera disagrees, saying Daniels would begin his career at tackle.
“Well, he’ll compete in it,” Rivera said when asked if Daniels would have a chance to compete to start at left guard.
“Both Chris [Paul] and Saahdiq [Charles] are gonna get a great opportunity to show us what they’re capable of. Would Braden have an opportunity? Yeah, but you know, we’re gonna see where he fits as far as tackle is concerned. And then we’ll take a look at the guard stuff, but tackle is something that we really like. A lot of athleticism there. Very raw talent. Listening to Travelle, one of the things Travelle felt is that this is a young man, if we can get his footwork straight, we think he has a chance to, to be a contributor.”
If Daniels can play tackle, that’s good for Washington. If not, many believe he’ll be an excellent NFL guard.
