Even though the Washington Commanders were just one win away from the Super Bowl in 2024, there are still plenty of positions on the roster that need upgrading. The defense is among Adam Peters' biggest priorities.
If the roster had a better defense, it's not crazy to say that the Commanders would have beaten the Philadelphia Eagles. There are some decent players to build around, so enhancing Joe Whitt Jr.'s options should be enough for another bold playoff bid next time around.
Peters could use the first of his seven picks in the 2025 NFL Draft to improve the defense.
Jihaad Campbell would bring explosiveness and versatility to the Commanders
Daniel Jeremiah from NFL.com has someone specific in mind. Jihaad Campbell was the choice in his latest mock draft. He brings the versatility and playmaking prowess Dan Quinn typically looks for on the defensive front seven.
"[Jihaad] Campbell is one of my favorite players in the class. I believe you’ll see some teams work him out as an edge rusher this spring. When he’s allowed to rush, he flashes elite potential. "Daniel Jeremiah
When Quinn was the Dallas Cowboys' defensive coordinator, Micah Parsons was used as his chess piece. He was drafted as a linebacker and was later moved to a full-time edge rusher with the ability to play a hybrid role.
Campbell will be drafted as a linebacker but has shown elite ability in his moments rushing the quarterback. Adding the former Alabama star to his options at the second level alongside Frankie Luvu gives the Commanders a dynamic tandem to build around.
The Crimson Tide star is a 6-foot-3, 244-pound athlete who uses explosiveness and instincts to take over games. Campbell racked up 89 tackles, 20 pressures, eight sacks, and an interception last season, which earned him an 81.6 grade from Pro Football Focus.
If Campbell does get moved to a hybrid linebacker-edge role, his technique needs to be refined. That is exactly what Quinn and Whitt are there for. Luckily, he shows off enough natural traits and abilities as an edge rusher to make that development entirely possible.
His timing off the snap is nothing short of extraordinary. It gives Campbell an advantage over the opposing offensive line right off the bat. Combine his timing along with his explosiveness and athleticism, and he can completely blow past linemen.
The Timber Creek Regional High School product is a surefire tackler who rarely misses. His coverage skills are good, especially for an edge rusher out of high school. Campbell's starring performance at the NFL Scouting Combine did nothing but propel his stock.
Campbell's versatility alone makes him a player Peters has to consider at No. 29 overall, but his talent makes him more than worthy of being the selection there.
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