Looking at Washington’s 2023 draft through the lens of likely 2024 needs

To start, let me be clear - as I have been in the past - I’m not a proponent of drafting primarily for “need” (i.e., to fill a starting hole on a roster). That’s not to say “need” shouldn’t be considered in the draft, but that it should come behind other, more important factors, like positional value and player talent level - so called, “best player available.”

That said, looking at need, particularly future needs, is an important part of the draft prioritization process, as most draftees are unlikely to fill immediate needs even if you wanted them to. Many are, however, capable of developing into starters or key depth given a year or two to mature. Players like Darrick Forrest, Jamin Davis,…