The Washington Commanders enter the 2025 NFL Draft with just five picks. That's not in keeping with Adam Peters' initial desire to build through the college ranks, but the general manager was right to change course slightly after a remarkable first campaign for the new regime.
Washington reached the NFC Championship game. They found a franchise quarterback at the first time of asking. Peters knew this was a window of opportunity and went bolder than many anticipated to bring proven performers to the organization.
The first big splash was trading for cornerback Marshon Lattimore before the 2024 deadline. Peters wasn't done there, acquiring wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. and left tackle Laremy Tunsil to legitimize his project further this offseason.
It's an exciting time for fans. Peters would probably like to get more picks by trading down at some stage. He's also accomplished enough to maximize his current resources in pursuit of going one better next time around.
Using the Pro Football Network simulator, we looked at how the Commanders could approach their selections in our latest seven-round mock draft.
Commanders fill needs with outstanding prospects in 7-round 2025 NFL mock draft
Commanders draft James Pearce Jr.
- Edge Rusher | Tennessee Volunteers
- Round No. 1 | Pick No. 29
The Washington Commanders have flexibility heading into the draft. Adam Peters will consider offers to move back from No. 29 overall. If one of the quarterbacks (Tyler Shough, Jalen Milroe, Jaxson Dart) is available, that's the best chance the front-office leader has of getting some decent capital in return.
That's to be determined. Peters won't hesitate to stand pat and take the best prospect available if the right offer doesn't come along. If someone like James Pearce Jr. is around by the time Washington goes on the clock, that could be the call.
The Commanders need a dynamic edge rusher to give their playoff hopes a boost. Pearce is explosive with a high motor capable of causing havoc consistently in opposing backfields. His athleticism is nothing short of jaw-dropping, which looks tailor-made for Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr.'s defensive schematics.
Pearce's first step is lightning-quick. He's got the agility to counter initial contact, and his speed-to-power is eye-catching. There is some technical refinement needed against the run, but this should be easily resolved by the Commanders' exceptional coaching staff.
The floor is immensely high where Pearce is concerned. There's a possibility he could go much higher, but Adam Peters knows it's a waiting game for his desired prospects at No. 29 overall.