Commanders draft Jakobe Thomas
- Safety | Miami Hurricanes
- Round No. 6 | Pick No. 199
The Washington Commanders need to find more in their safety room. Daronte Jones' projected scheme needs versatile defensive backs who thrive in coverage and can also make their presence felt around the football. Looking at the options currently available, general manager Adam Peters should look to strengthen the unit.
Jones singled out Quan Martin and Will Harris as two versatile chess pieces he wants to see involved. Jeremy Reaves will be around as a core special-teams presence, and the same probably goes for Percy Butler. Tyler Owens is the wildcard, but the Texas Tech product certainly has the athletic attributes that could be useful.
Jakobe Thomas is an intriguing option who could eventually become a draft gem in the right fit. His transfer to Miami went better than anyone expected in 2025, with the dynamic defensive back gaining 76 tackles, four tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, and no fewer than five interceptions. He's a well-rounded prospect who could potentially thrive under Jones' guidance.
Commanders draft Rayshaun Benny
- Defensive Line | Michigan Wolverines
- Round No. 6 | Pick No. 208
Adding to the defensive line is critical at some stage during the offseason. The Commanders could be switching alignments under new coordinator Daronte Jones, and an upgrade in the personnel is almost guaranteed in the trenches.
Daron Payne is reportedly going to play out the final year of his deal. Jones highlighted Javon Kinlaw's versatility and said he'll utilize it. Johnny Newton doesn't look suited to a 3-4 front, so it'll be interesting to see what the Commanders have planned for the Illinois product.
Either way, more is needed. Rayshaun Benny represents a ton of value at this stage of the draft. His violent hands, ability to remain disciplined against the run, and explosive burst off the snap make him an intriguing rotational piece with the scope to eventually become a solid starter when the correct development arrives.
Commanders draft Riley Mahlman
- Offensive Tackle | Wisconsin Badgers
- Round No. 7 | Pick No. 223
The Commanders have their starting offensive tackle tandem locked in for the long haul. Adam Peters got some exceptional returns from his bold offseason trade for five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil, who's in line for a lucrative contract extension in the not-too-distant future. After a shaky start, right tackle Josh Conerly Jr. demonstrated immense promise throughout his rookie campaign.
That said, increasing the depth would be wise if injury strikes. George Fant, Trent Scott, and Andrew Wylie are all free agents and may not be back. The Commanders need to find capable backups to round out the unit in free agency and a little later in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Riley Mahlman's physical profile is absolutely off the charts. His size and length allow him to create leverage effortlessly. Once some technical refinements are in place, the Wisconsin prospect has starting potential if allowed to develop at his own pace.