Commanders draft Hunter Wohler
- Safety | Wisconsin Badgers
- Round No. 6 | Pick No. 205
Letting Jeremy Chinn walk in free agency was a contentious issue among the fan base. The Washington Commanders got some outstanding production from the dynamic safety during his one year with the franchise. Even so, general manager Adam Peters didn't believe he was worthy of the financial commitment offered by the Las Vegas Raiders.
The Commanders thought they could get similar output for cheaper with Will Harris. That's a calculated risk, but the defensive back is athletic enough to make an impression alongside Quan Martin. He's also well known to assistant general manager Lance Newmark from their time together on the Detroit Lions.
With Tyler Owens, Percy Butler, and Jeremy Reaves backing up the projected starting duo currently, the Commanders might be looking for another rotational safety who can impact special teams. They could address this need a lot sooner, especially if someone like Malaki Starks or Nick Emmanwori falls into their lap at No. 29. If not, Hunter Wohler can be a nice complementary piece with long-term upside on Day 3.
Wohler has the physical profile that Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. typically look for in their defensive backs. The Wisconsin prospect is a strong presence against the run who flashes tremendous tackling promise on tape. Coaxing more quick-twitch fluidity from his movements, especially in coverage, will help his upcoming adjustment.
Commanders draft Adin Huntington
- Defensive Line | Tulane Green Wave
- Round No. 7 | Pick No. 245
The Commanders wanted to strengthen their trenches on defense this offseason. This need was enhanced considerably when Jonathan Allen got released after no willing trade suitor came forward.
Javon Kinlaw was the Commanders' biggest splash in free agency by a considerable margin. Most deemed the three-year, $45 million contract with $30 million guaranteed as an overpay, but Adam Peters believes his physical dominance can make a huge impact on the defensive interior.
Several linemen from last season were re-signed. Daron Payne is still around, and Johnny Newton is being tipped for big things in Year 2. All signs are pointing up, but the Commanders could spend a Day 3 pick on another.
Adin Huntington has met with the Commanders several times throughout the pre-draft process. He's an impressive athlete who coped well with the step-up in class last season at Tulane. His flashes as a physical, explosive pass-rusher make him well worth the risk here.
Huntington can drift in and out from a production standpoint. Finding the consistency to match his obvious talent might be enough to see him become a solid rotational figure over time, which is all any team looks for from seventh-round picks.
Peters could go any number of ways when the draft rolls around. It'll be an enthralling few days for fans with optimism higher than it's been in decades.