Football seemed inevitable for Kingsley Suamataia, given his illustrious family connections and the success of his high school team, which boasted talents like Puka Nacua. Despite being a highly sought-after prospect, Suamataia chose Oregon over several top programs, only to redshirt after playing just one snap. However, homesickness led him to transfer to BYU, where he quickly became a standout starter at right tackle, impressing with his pass-blocking prowess.
Now, with the Commanders facing challenges at the tackle positions due to the departure of Charles Leno, Jr., and the uncertain performance of others, Suamataia emerges as a potential solution. His impressive physical attributes, including his size, arm length, and athleticism, make him a promising prospect. While he excels in protecting the quarterback and opening running lanes, there are areas of his technique that require refinement, such as hand placement, recovery, and awareness.
Starting Suamataia on the right side initially, where he’d face less pressure from elite pass rushers, could be beneficial. As he hones his skills, he could transition to the left side in the future. In the meantime, he could provide valuable depth as a swing tackle while addressing his weaknesses. With ample resources in free agency and the draft, the Commanders are well-positioned to address their tackle issues, potentially including Suamataia in their plans.
