The first wave of free agency is in the rearview mirror. Some Washington Commanders fans were expecting big money moves to propel this upstart contender to the NFL's top table long term. Adam Peters preferred a different approach.
Peters opted to bring back a large majority of Washington's free agents who contributed significantly to the cause last season. The Commanders made one lofty financial commitment when defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw came into the fold on a three-year, $45 million deal with $30 million guaranteed. This was seen as an overpay, but the general manager firmly believes this will go a long way to replacing Jonathan Allen.
There was also another blockbuster trade when the Commanders gave up significant assets for prolific left tackle Laremy Tunsil. This solves a major need and provides quarterback Jayden Daniels with an elite blindside protector entering his second season. However, it further diminishes the draft picks at Peters' disposal in 2025.
The Commanders have just five selections as things stand. Their needs have lessened, but there's no doubt Peters would like to have more.
That makes trading down in the first or second round a realistic possibility. Peters might be content with what he has, but it seems unlikely given his ethos to build through the draft and supplement any remaining needs from the veteran pool.
Using the Pro Football Network simulator, we took a look at how the Commanders might approach their 2025 NFL Draft selections in a special mock after a frantic few days of free agency.
Commanders 7-round 2025 NFL mock draft after the first wave of free agency
Commanders draft Jihaad Campbell
- Linebacker | Alabama Crimson Tide
- Round No. 1 | Pick No. 29
Re-signing so many players and solving needs in free agency or the trade market provides Adam Peters with a little extra flexibility during the draft. The Washington Commanders are a prime trade-down candidate in this scenario. But if someone like Jihaad Campbell was there for the taking, it represents a difficult proposition to turn down.
Campbell looks tailor-made for Dan Quinn's schematic concepts. He's fast, physical, and versatile. The Alabama prospect is also a sideline-to-sideline force and a heavy hitter when it comes to tackling.
The second-level presence can get after the quarterback in pass-rushing situations and is improving in coverage. He'd be a tremendous pick here, but there's a growing sense in league circles that the prospect might be long gone by the time Washington goes on the clock.
Jordan Reid from ESPN reported that Campbell might enter top-10 consideration when push comes to shove. That means it's a waiting game for Peters, but this looks like the perfect long-term replacement for Bobby Wagner.