Why Athan Kaliakmanis to the Commanders makes sense
The former Scarlet Knight will get the chance to develop behind one of the league’s best young talents.
There were many scratching their heads when Rutgers quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis was selected 223rd overall by the Washington Commanders on Saturday afternoon. Kaliakmanis was selected before presumed SEC locks Garrett Nussmeier and Diego Pavia. While there might be off-the-field issues at play with both, the same cannot be said for Kaliakmanis.
He visited the Commanders early in the draft process and clearly made an impact. Despite the Commanders having franchise quarterback Jayden Daniels in place, the selection of Kaliakmanis could make sense for both parties. Let’s look at the fact.
Kaliakmanis played in 48 games during his career. He brings experience to a quarterback room that is looking for a young backup. He was also selected in the seventh round, which means it’s a low risk move for Washington.
Washington brought back Marcus Mariota to serve as the No. 2 quarterback on the depth chart. Daniels missed time with multiple injuries last season and Mariota was inserted into action.