Commanders could have drafted Tykee Smith
The Washington Commanders' secondary was expected to be among the team's most significant areas of strength this season. Everyone was healthy, and the reinforcements acquired by general manager Adam Peters left hope that they could finally provide the assurance the team needed to become a much more balanced operation on game days.
Aside from a few flashes of promising consistency, it's been a grave disappointment. They have struggled to cope with some high-octane passing attacks. Some culprits are coming to the fore more than others, but it's just not good enough collectively.
Significant changes could be on the way if things continue as they are. But looking at how Tykee Smith is beginning to establish himself as one of the league's most dynamic safeties, he'd have been a much better option than offensive lineman Brandon Coleman.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected Smith at No. 89 overall, and they are getting a substantial return on their investment. His sophomore campaign is going superbly, with seven pass breakups, two sacks, and 58 tackles already accumulated by the former Georgia standout through seven games.
Smith has the look of a future Pro Bowler. His physical style would have fit seamlessly in Washington, but it wasn't to be.
Commanders could have drafted Jalyx Hunt
The Commanders are desperate for younger, more explosive edge rushers. Adam Peters took a risk by going with so many older players at this key position group heading into the 2025 campaign. It's already blown up in his face.
Deatrich Wise Jr. and Dorance Armstrong Jr. — the projected defensive end starting tandem — have now been ruled out for the season. Javontae Jean-Baptiste is also on the shelf. Even recent signing Drake Jackson was stashed on injured reserve, leaving the Commanders thin on the ground when it comes to reliable options.
It's taken a while, but Jalyx Hunt is starting to become an asset to the Philadelphia Eagles, who selected the edge force at No. 94 overall. His snap percentage has surged to 65 this season. He's yet to register a sack, but his 21 pressures suggest that the Houston Christian product could potentially be dominant if he finishes off plays with more conviction.
Coming from a small school to a leading contender was always going to come with an adjustment period. Hunt benefited enormously from being part of Philadelphia's Super Bowl-winning campaign in 2024, and it's clear that the best is yet to come from a player who hasn't even turned 25 years old yet.