Commanders draft D.J. Giddens
- Running Back | Kansas State Jayhawks
- Round No. 3 | Pick No. 100
The Washington Commanders need more at the running back position. Adam Peters gave those who contributed last season another chance to prove themselves, but overlooking a deep group of prospects emerging from the college ranks in 2025 would be foolish.
Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler started well last season before injuries and poor performance levels resulted in regression. They are also entering the final year of their respective deals with no guarantees about their status beyond the upcoming campaign.
Jeremy McNichols is a serviceable veteran, but nothing more. Chris Rodriguez Jr. got an exclusive rights tender this offseason, which indicates the Commanders see something in the former sixth-round pick that can be molded into a productive performer in the rotation.
If the Commanders can secure another option via the draft, the better their chances will improve. D.J. Giddens has a lot of likable traits that warrant consideration at the end of Day 2.
Giddens has a nice blend of patience and explosiveness. He's got the vision to spot gaps and burst through them with aggressive purpose. The Kansas State prospect is also a significant threat as a pass-catcher out of the backfield to further enhance his influence.
Putting on some extra muscle mass and improving as a pass blocker are the immediate objectives upon joining the pros. But there remains plenty of untapped potential where Giddens is concerned.
Commanders draft Tai Felton
- Wide Receiver | Maryland Terrapins
- Round No. 4 | Pick No. 122
Adam Peters made a concerted effort to surround quarterback Jayden Daniels with everything needed to thrive moving forward this offseason. The Commanders know they have a superstar on their hands. They also know how important it is to maximize his rookie contract before things get much more expensive to keep him around.
Washington traded for wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. They re-signed Noah Brown and K.J. Osborn. Luke McCaffrey is expected to become more influential with another offseason to develop. The Commanders are also giving Michael Gallup a chance to shine after the wideout unretired following one year away from the gridiron.
That won't stop the Commanders from drafting another wide receiver if the situation presents itself. If Peters opts to wait until a little later in the process, someone like Tai Felton makes sense.
Felton is an electric downfield threat with the ability to create separation quickly. He improved in each of his four seasons at Maryland, with his 2024 breakout putting him firmly on the draft radar.
Speed is Felton's biggest asset. There is some work ahead to limit drops and improve his play strength, but the player's strong work ethic and high character make him an enticing project who could become a nice surprise as a rookie.