Loser No. 2
Dorance Armstrong Jr. - Commanders DE
The Washington Commanders neglected one critical area during the 2025 NFL Draft. Finding an explosive edge rusher was arguably the No. 1 priority above all else heading into the process. That wasn't an opinion shared by general manager Adam Peters, who didn't acquire any pass-rushing assistance for Joe Whitt Jr.'s defense.
This was a contentious issue among fans. It impacted the team's post-draft grades with most analysts. Peters felt the prospects available were worth taking, but it doesn't do anything to appease fans' concerns about generating pressure with more consistency in 2025.
It also piles more pressure on Dorance Armstrong Jr. to make significant improvements. Last year's free-agent signing flashed over the second half of 2024, especially from a pass-rushing standpoint. What he needs is a productive partner to do the same.
Armstrong was probably hoping for exactly that from the draft. It didn't materialize, so the Commanders will be hoping a combination of Deatrich Wise Jr., Jacob Martin, Clelin Ferrell, and Javontae Jean-Baptiste can fill the void.
That remains to be seen. The Commanders have the money to sign one of the remaining free agents still sitting on the market. Peters might be happy with what he has, which means Armstrong needs to become a legitimate No. 1 option unless further reinforcements arrive.
Winner No. 3
Tyler Owens - Commanders S
After letting Jeremy Chinn walk in free agency for the Las Vegas Raiders, the Commanders had to pivot with their plans at the safety position. Will Harris was brought into the fold when the legal tampering window commenced, but most expected general manager Adam Peters to add another talented prospect from the college ranks to solidify depth.
The Commanders opted not to use any of their draft picks on backend help. Washington signed a couple of undrafted free agents who could emerge as nice surprises in the secondary, but this involves starting from the bottom and working their way into the team's plans.
One cannot look at this approach as anything other than positive for Tyler Owens. Last year's undrafted free agent soared onto the 53-man roster after a starring performance over the summer. Injuries derailed his progress, and the Commanders utilized him more on special teams than in the defensive rotation as a rookie.
This was the first step in his development. There is an opportunity for Owens to become a core rotational piece behind Harris and Quan Martin next season. He's got the size and explosiveness to make things happen, so his progress will be something to watch over the summer.
Owens has a shot. Taking advantage of it is crucial.