Day 3 of the NFL Draft is where teams will typically build up depth on their roster. However, there are always gems that end up as starters every year.
Former Washington Commanders greats like Alfred Morris and Dexter Manley are just a couple of examples. This is proof of how you can find stars in the later rounds.
Starters aren't the entirety of your roster. Good depth is extremely important to have for situations like injuries. Teams will find several of their backups on the last day of the draft.
The Commanders currently only hold three picks on Day 3 as things stand. One fourth-round pick (No. 128), one sixth-round pick (No. 205), and one seventh-round pick (No. 245). Adam Peters will be looking to get that number up, and here are some rough diamonds the general manager should consider.
Rough diamonds the Commanders can't afford to pass up on Day 3 of the 2025 NFL Draft
Commanders could draft Kaimon Rucker
- Edge Rusher | North Carolina Tar Heels
Even if Adam Peters takes an edge rusher over the first two days, this should not rule out taking another given how depleted the Washington Commanders' depth chart appears in this critical area.
Kaimon Rucker is a prospect out of North Carolina who is projected to go on Day 3. Even though he won't go early, he has the talent to be an impact player as a pass-rushing specialist.
Dan Quinn is renowned for creating multiple defensive packages that get players to utilize their strengths as best they can. He is also arguably the best coach in the league at developing edge rushers and getting the most out of them. Due to Rucker being more of a pass rush-focused player, he would fit into Washington's scheme well.
The Hart County High School alum stands at 6-foot-1 and 254 pounds, which is relatively light for a pass rusher. It's also a big reason why he wouldn't be a full-time starter.
Rucker plays with a very high football IQ, allowing him to process offensive plays quickly. His pass-rush arsenal is explosive, and the prospect displays great technique. He boasted an 18.6 percent pass rush win rate during the 2024 season, which is nothing short of outstanding.
He is even able to naturally and smoothly drop into coverage now and then if needed. Even with his smaller frame, Rucker was a sure tackler at North Carolina, even putting up an impressive 8.5% run-stop rate.