Commanders 7-round 2025 NFL mock draft: Bye week dilemmas edition
By Dean Jones
Commanders draft Kyle Kennard
- Edge Rusher | South Carolina Gamecocks
- Round No. 2 | Pick No. 56
Anyone who's read my previous mock drafts this season is aware of how highly I view Kyle Kennard as a prospect. The Washington Commanders are also desperate for more explosive pass-rushers on their defensive front moving forward.
Clelin Ferrell hasn't met expectations and will likely be moved on when his contract expires next spring. Dorance Armstrong Jr. signed a long-term deal with the Commanders, but he doesn't look capable of being a legitimate No. 1 pass-rushing option despite flashing some promise throughout the campaign.
Kennard has the size and length that typically transition well to the pros. The South Carolina prospect is relentless in pursuit and dynamic off the block to the initial contact point. His high-level work ethic and overall mindset should fit well into what head coach Dan Quinn is looking to establish in Washington.
If Kennard is around by this point, which is debatable, the Commanders should seriously consider the possibility of acquiring the edge presence. This is a deep class for defensive line and edge rushers that Adam Peters must take advantage of.
Commanders draft Jalen Royals
- Wide Receiver | Utah State Aggies
- Round No. 3 | Pick No. 77
The Commanders have to get quarterback Jayden Daniels more help in the passing game. He's got the talent to thrive based on an outstanding rookie campaign to date. However, there is an over-reliance on Pro Bowl pass-catcher Terry McLaurin that must change.
McLaurin will be a key focal point moving forward. There are questions around the rest, although first-year wideout Luke McCaffrey could be a future weapon despite being used sparingly during his first season in a professional environment.
There are some intriguing names set to enter free agency for the Commanders to consider. Going down the draft route is another realistic avenue, which brings Jalen Royals into the equation in the third round.
Royals missed some time through injury this season. However, the skilled receiver is a big play waiting to happen. His assured route-running and assured hands are matched by exceptional elusiveness and breakaway speed in open space.
There is some refinement needed as a blocker and Royals needs to refine his route tree. That said, he's the sort of game-changer Washington needs to surround Daniels with to maximize his rookie contract.