Commanders draft Kenyatta Jackson Jr.
- Edge Rusher | Ohio State Buckeyes
- Round No. 2 | Pick No. 51
Fans were highly concerned about the Washington Commanders' lack of legitimate edge rushing options before the campaign. Adam Peters rode the wave with what he had, adding a few aging veterans into the mix. It's been a disaster.
That has to change this offseason. The Commanders have money to spend in free agency, but going down the draft route is another option. One player isn't going to fix all these problems, so fans are expecting several new explosive pass-rushers to give this defense a massive lift.
The more picks Peters accumulates, the better. With the second-round pick acquired via trade in this scenario, a bet on the exceptional upside of Kenyatta Jackson Jr. is well worth considering.
Jackson's production finally started to match his athleticism this season, notching 6.5 sacks and 11 tackles for loss with the Ohio State Buckeyes. He's a well-rounded edge rusher capable of getting into the backfield frequently. His improvements in edge-setting against the run are only going to help his draft stock.
Commanders draft Will Lee III
- Cornerback | Texas A&M Aggies
- Round No. 3 | Pick No. 68
Adam Peters has invested heavily in the cornerback position since becoming general manager. Looking at things as they stand right now, the Commanders will need more to secure long-term stability.
Marshon Lattimore is likely done in Washington after tearing his ACL. Mike Sainristil hasn't developed enough. Noah Igbinoghene probably won't be back, and it could go either way with Jonathan Jones. Only second-round rookie Trey Amos demonstrated any consistency this season, which is a massive problem.
Dan Quinn likes his corners to be fast and athletic. Will Lee III is a domineering physical presence. He's a fluid mover for a 6-foot-2 corner, boasting fluid movements and the strength to get receivers off their routes in press coverage. There is also a lot to like about his processing and instincts, which make him a perfect fit for the Commanders' defensive scheme.
Once Lee refines his technique, someone is going to have a magnificent prospect on their hands.
Commanders draft Amare Ferrell
- Safety | Indiana Hoosiers
- Round No. 3 | Pick No. 79
The Commanders need a rethink at the safety position this offseason. Will Harris is a dependable veteran who should be around in 2026, the final year of his deal. Aside from that, all bets are off.
Quan Martin's breakout campaign has fallen flat, and one couldn't say with any confidence what the future holds beyond 2025. Jeremy Reaves is all effort but lacks the genuine quality of a playmaker on the backend. Tyler Owens and Percy Butler look like special-teams aces and nothing more.
If the Commanders are looking for a legitimate difference-maker who thrives in all phases, Amare Ferrell could be the answer.
He's been a key cog for two seasons with the Indiana Hoosiers during their outstanding run to a No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff. The prospect can impact proceedings in the box and has excellent anticipation skills in coverage, as evidenced by his eight interceptions in 26 games.