Whether they have genuine interest in drafting a quarterback this April or not, the Commanders certainly want to appear as though they have interest.
For the second straight day, the Commanders have a presence at a pro day featuring a potential first-round quarterback. After sending as many as seven staffers to Kenny Pickett's pro day on Monday, a top Commanders executive is in Lynchburg, Va. for Malik Willis' pro day at Liberty University.
Washington VP of football and player personnel Marty Hurney will watch Willis throw in front of pro scouts on Tuesday.
Willis is largely expected to be the first quarterback taken in the 2022 draft, projecting as high as second overall (Lions) and possibly even first (Jaguars). Jacksonville obviously doesn't need a passer after taking Trevor Lawrence with the top pick last year, but with Detroit likely to take Willis if he's there at No. 2, the Jags are in prime position to trade out of the top spot should they create enough demand for Willis.
The Texans (3rd), Giants (5th, 7th), Panthers (6th), Falcons (8th), and Seahawks (9th) all have picks inside the top 10 and could be in the market for a quarterback before Washington picks at 11. For that reason, it seems Washington's intent falls more on the side of due diligence and smoke and mirrors, considering — outside of trading for the first pick — they're highly unlikely to be in a position to draft Willis.
For what it's worth, Willis measured in at six feet and one-half inch and 225 pounds. He will not be running the 40 or testing his strength but will be throwing for scouts.
