The Washington Commanders have acquired the defensive tackle, talented prospect, Jer’Zhan Newton in the 2024 NFL Draft in the second round as the 36th pick.
The defensive lineup of the Washington Commanders has been kept rejuvenated by both two-time Pro Bowl Jonathan Allen and Pro Bowl, Daron Payne. The rookie shares how he has an incredible chance to learn from the two stars of the Commanders who he has been following for a long time.
According to the Commanders, Newton expressed, "You"re talking about guys I used to watch when they was in college, so transitioning to the NFL, of course, I still watched them. Playing next to those guys, outstanding, an amazing feeling. [They"re] older guys who have had success [in] college and in the NFL. So, I"m really happy."
Newton played college football at Illinois Fighting Illini Football program and became one of the top prospects. Last year, he won the Nagurski–Woodson Defensive Player of the Year, and the Smith–Brown Defensive Lineman of the Year awards.
The prominent defensive tackle, Newton believes that he will fit in well with the defense department. He considers himself to have supplementary knowledge as compared to other players.
He shares, "I have a great pre-snap recognition. I know which plays coming at which down and distance, which formation brings which play. So, I just feel like my knowledge on the game is very high compared to other people."
However, the top prospect suffered a Jones fracture in his right foot and has undergone surgery for the injury. Due to this, he had missed his pre-draft processes. The head coach of the Commanders, Dan Quinn, mentioned that the injury was "unfortunate" but he is having a positive outlook regarding Newton"s comeback.
He mentioned, "He"ll get a procedure done in the next week and then get back started and get going with the process again. But man, do we have high hopes for him. Like he is such a kick ass competitor. So, in some ways when you have to get a procedure done, better to do it early, that this didn"t happen in the end of August or in September where it sets you back."
Newton in his collegiate career played 44 games and registered 187 combined tackles, out of which 80 were solo and 107 were assists. He also posted 18 sacks as well.
