Commanders could draft Will Johnson
- Cornerback | Michigan Wolverines
It's never nice to see prospects sitting in the green room backstage at the draft waiting for their names to be called. They cast envious glances at others who've achieved their dream, waiting to hear their names called. It happens eventually, but the wait is painstaking.
Will Johnson was among those who had a wasted trip to Lambeau Field on Day 1. The gifted cornerback was projected to be among the first prospects taken earlier in the pre-draft process. However, concerns about a knee injury raised enough red flags for every team in the first round to go in a different direction.
Johnson isn't expected to last much longer on Day 2, although nothing could be completely dismissed right now. The former Michigan standout's athleticism and ability to mirror wide receivers were there for all to see in college. But the health concerns, coupled with his supposed scheme dependency, gave teams cause to pause.
It would be immensely surprising if he were still around when the Washington Commanders' next turn came at No. 61. If he somehow made it that far down the pecking order, it would be a difficult proposition to turn down if Adam Peters is satisfied with his medical assessments.
Adding Johnson to Washington's current cornerback options represents a mouthwatering proposition.
Commanders could draft Oluwafemi Oladejo
- Edge Rusher | UCLA Bruins
This is the Commanders' biggest remaining priority. They need more explosiveness in their edge-rushing room. And they need it urgently.
Adam Peters felt that taking an offensive tackle before the talent fell off dramatically was a better option than examining the edge rushers available. This is a deep class for defensive linemen and those who can generate pressure consistently. The Commanders believe they can find better value lower down the draft food chain.
Peters is playing his board as effectively as ever. Even so, the potential complications are glaring if the Commanders don't rectify this issue.
Oluwafemi Oladejo is someone who caught the eye of Washington's brass throughout the team's comprehensive pre-draft assessments. He's got the physical traits Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. look for in their edge rushers, which is matched by a relentless work ethic and leadership credentials in abundance.
Oladejo can play with his hand in the dirt or as a stand-up rusher. His versatility would allow the Commanders to move him around the line of scrimmage to exploit mismatches. Whether he makes it down to No. 61 overall is another matter.
There are still some intriguing edge players remaining who could go ahead of Oladejo. That might work in Washington's favor when it's all said and done.