Loser No. 1
Andrew Wylie - Commanders OT
The Washington Commanders weren't expected to take an offensive tackle with their first-round pick. But when Oregon prospect Josh Conerly Jr. was available at No. 29 overall, general manager Adam Peters didn't hesitate to pull the trigger.
Conerly is an exceptional pass protector with NFL-ready footwork. Adding some play strength will be beneficial over the summer, but that should be pretty straightforward once Washington's accomplished staff devise a comprehensive plan for his development.
Peters takes the best prospects available without much consideration for roster needs. The Commanders put themselves in a strong position over the offseason to implement this strategy once again, and Conerly could form a bookend tandem with five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil if everything goes according to plan.
This will have a ripple effect. Andrew Wylie could be the player most impacted, especially if Brandon Coleman switches well to the interior as most anticipate.
Wylie is entering the final year of his deal and restructured his contract to stick around in 2025. He didn't give up a sack at right tackle last season, but remains susceptible on an island. It'll be interesting to see what the Commanders have planned for the offensive line, but all signs point to this being the two-time Super Bowl winner's last season with the franchise.
Winner No. 2
Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB
The Commanders had one big priority above all else this offseason. Adam Peters wanted to ensure quarterback sensation Jayden Daniels has everything needed to excel further entering Year 2 of his professional career.
Daniels proved his worth as a franchise-caliber presence under center last season. His poise, work ethic, and composure under pressure were a breath of fresh air. The Commanders had a lot of positives, but none were more important than Peters' decision to take the Heisman Trophy winner at No. 2 overall in 2024.
This strategy continued during the draft. The Commanders drafted another accomplished edge protector (Josh Conerly Jr.), another dynamic weapon (Jaylin Lane), and an intriguing running back who could impact the rotation immediately (Jacory Croskey-Merritt).
There are very few (if any) weak links in Washington's offense after a memorable offseason. They have some outstanding playmakers and decent depth pieces across the board. It'll be more difficult next season, but the Commanders have given Daniels a fighting chance of reaching even greater heights when competitive action resumes.
Daniels is ready to prove that his rookie heroics weren't just a flash in the pan. The former LSU standout is striving for greatness, and the Commanders have placed a significant amount of faith in their new prized possession this offseason.