Commanders must avoid Mike Green
- Edge Rusher | Marshall Thundering Herd
The Washington Commanders need another prolific edge rusher to give their postseason hopes a major boost. It was among their weakest areas last season, as those tasked with responsibilities on the rotation failed to provide consistent pressure or hold their ground against the run.
Washington should bolster the unit at some stage in the draft. The Commanders could easily double-dip at the position if Adam Peters can engineer a trade-down early in the process. But don't be surprised if the No. 29 overall selection is used on a pass-rusher with proven credentials.
Mike Green was a blistering riser on draft boards. His sensational final campaign at Marshall propelled him into consideration. The ferocious edge threat notched 17 sacks and 23 tackles for loss, winning the Sun Belt Player of the Year. He franked this outstanding form with a starring effort at the Senior Bowl, which left some placing him in the top 10 range as a result.
That won't be the case anymore. Reports revealed that Green's departure from Virginia centered on sexual assault allegations. He's been open about this with teams and denies the claims. But it might hurt his stock all the same.
Looking at the importance Peters places on high-character prospects with no off-the-field distractions, it would be a bombshell of epic proportions if Green came under consideration.
Commanders must avoid Maxwell Hairston
- Cornerback | Kentucky Wildcats
The Commanders could add another cornerback to round off their starting rotation when the draft rolls around. They have a decent quartet as things stand, so it might not be a pressing priority compared to other areas. Even so, Adam Peters always wants to take the best prospects available regardless of need.
Marshon Lattimore and Mike Sainristil are the boundary options currently. Noah Igbinoghene got a one-year extension after impressing in the nickel last season. The Commanders also signed Jonathan Jones following his glittering spell with the New England Patriots that resulted in two Super Bowl triumphs.
Speculation linking the Commanders with a trade for Jalen Ramsey seems far-fetched. Peters doesn't have the ammunition even if he wanted to, so going down the draft route is the most likely (and cost-effective) option.
The Commanders have taken an interest in Maxwell Hairston during their comprehensive pre-draft assessments. He was a lightning-fast turnover machine at the college level. However, he's also a little undersized at 5-foot-11 and 183 pounds.
Hairston shouldn't be compared to Emmanuel Forbes Jr., but it's not hard to invoke those memories for Commanders fans. Hairston plays a lot tougher, and he's got more about him from a competitive streak from the outside looking in. Whether that's enough to cope with the added rigors of the NFL is another matter.
However, finding a physical presence more in keeping with Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr.'s typical preference is much more desirable.