Commanders 7-round 2023 NFL mock draft: BPA edition

Commanders draft Julius Brents

• Cornerback | Kansas State Wildcats

Another position group that needs another capable figure with Day 1 starting potential is the cornerback room. The Washington Commanders did manage to pick up Cameron Dantzler Sr. off the waiver wire, but if he cannot return to his 2021 form, it represents a complication.

This is something the Commanders could address early in the draft. The likes of Joey Porter Jr., Christian Gonzalez, and Devon Witherspoon should all be high on their board, but looking a little further down the pecking order could also bring rewards if the right prospect is targeted.

Someone like Julius Brents fits the bill. The Kansas State product is long, physical, and is gaining momentum at just the right time – which almost guarantees he’ll be taken at some stage on Day 2.

Brents thrives in press coverage and has no trouble getting wideouts off their routes. He has the speed to track receivers downfield and enough instincts to identify where the football is going before it arrives.

There is also a lot to like about the way Brents applies himself against the run. If the prospect can improve the footwork aspect of playing the position upon arriving at the next level, this represents a potential starting option right out of the gate.

Adding Brents to a unit that also consists of Dantzler, Kendall Fuller, and Benjamin St-Juste should be enough or the Commanders to improve. It’s also worth remembering they have an accomplished young safety tandem in Kamren Curl and Darrick Forest to call upon.