Commanders could draft Smael Mondon Jr.
- Linebacker | Georgia Bulldogs
The Washington Commanders could be looking for another high-upside linebacker to place along the options already available on Day 3 of the 2025 NFL Draft. It's not a great need, especially if Jordan Magee makes the strides expected with a full offseason under his belt, but it's something Adam Peters will contemplate if the right opportunity presents itself.
Smael Mondon Jr. comes from a prestigious program, but he's gone relatively under the radar compared to other Georgia Bulldogs. However, one only has to look at how highly coaches and teammates speak about him to see what a good fit he'd be in Washington's locker room.
Mondon identifies plays developing quickly. He's got enough closing speed to reach the contact point with supreme efficiency, which is matched by physical tackling and an ability to remain disciplined in coverage.
This would make Mondon a core part of Washington's special teams while developing other areas of his game behind Frankie Luvu and Bobby Wagner.
Commanders could draft Bradyn Swinson
- Edge Rusher | LSU Tigers
The Commanders need another edge rusher capable of generating pressure when called upon. Their current options are serviceable and should improve the team's outlook against the run, but it's nowhere near enough to get over the hump.
What separates the Philadelphia Eagles from the rest is their willingness to keep building in areas of strength. Howie Roseman stockpiles players on the front seven, and the results speak for themselves. The Commanders would be wise to adopt a similar strategy if they want to keep pace with their fierce division rivals.
Bradyn Swinson could be the best remaining edge rushing prospect on Day 3. The LSU prospect has active hands, is improving technically, and has the first step needed to blow past opposing offensive linemen once he gets the upper hand.
Getting stronger against the run is essential if Swinson wants to carve out a successful NFL career for himself. But that should be relatively straightforward with the right nurturing throughout the summer.
Commanders could draft Elic Ayomanor
- Wide Receiver | Stanford Cardinal
It's surprising to see Elic Ayomanor still available on Day 3. The wide receiver's size, strength, and intelligence are always highly coveted traits in the pros. But there are always prospects who slip through the net when they were expected to be taken much higher.
Just ask Shedeur Sanders.
The Commanders could use a more physically imposing wideout to complement the options available. Ayomanor represents that, and his college output at Stanford to the tune of 1,844 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns in two seasons represents a solid platform from which to build.
Ayomanor might not last too long on Day 3, so the Commanders need to act swiftly if he's high on their board. That's to be determined, but Adam Peters' ruthless conviction means nothing can be ruled out despite the limited assets at his disposal.
Washington is opting for quality over quantity this year. Ayomanor ticks that box at this stage of the process.