Brian Robinson Jr. - Commanders RB
There weren't many Washington Commanders fans who thought Adam Peters would ignore the running back position during the 2025 NFL Draft. However, it looked like that might be the case after other prospects were preferred early in the process.
Peters saved his final pick to bolster the running back spot. Jacory Croskey-Merritt was the pick at No. 245 overall, which brings significant intrigue after the player's interesting route to the league.
Croskey-Merritt's transfer to Arizona lasted one game before the NCAA revoked his eligibility. This was extremely harsh, but the Commanders believed there was something to work with after spending considerable time with the player during their thorough pre-draft assessments.
Nothing is guaranteed for seventh-round selections. Croskey-Merritt needs to start well and catch the eye enough to work his way up the depth chart. Brian Robinson Jr., the team's current No. 1 backfield threat, must ensure he's kept at arm's length.
Robinson flashed promise early in the season before his production tailed off. The wear and tear of a grueling campaign took its toll, and the offensive line's run-blocking regression didn't help either. The Commanders are giving him another shot, but Croskey-Merritt's arrival gives them a solid fallback option if the Alabama graduate struggles to generate momentum in the final year of his deal.
Andrew Wylie - Commanders OL
According to ESPN's depth chart, Andrew Wylie remains lodged as the starting right tackle entering offseason workouts. That might not be the case for much longer.
The Commanders went with a surprising pick at No. 29 overall when offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. fell into their laps. Adam Peters wasn't entirely convinced he'd be available, so he wasn't going to waste the opportunity to enhance the protection in front of star quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Conerly needs to add some play strength, but he's technically sound with exceptional footwork. He could form a bookend tackle tandem with Laremy Tunsil immediately with a smooth transition this summer. That will mean someone is on the outside looking in.
There is a spot open on the offensive line until stud right guard Sam Cosmi returns from a torn ACL. Brandon Coleman will get a shot to secure the role if Washington retains Nick Allegretti at the left guard position. That could see Wylie move to the swing tackle role previously occupied by Cornelius Lucas before he departed for the Cleveland Browns in free agency.
It's arguably the most interesting (and important) dynamic to watch as preparations unfold. Tunsil and center Tyler Biadasz are the only two locks to start right now. Conerly could cement his spot quickly, leaving Allegretti, Wylie, and Coleman to fight it out for the two guard positions.