Commanders’ hopes of drafting top pass-rush prospect crushed at NFL Combine

It's a waiting game for the Washington Commanders at No. 29 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. That won't stop general manager Adam Peters from examining prospects at the top-end to cover every base heading into the all-important event.

Judging by an exceptional athletic showcase at the NFL Scouting Combine, the Commanders' hopes of landing one of the top pass-rushers emerging from the college ranks have all but evaporated.

The Commanders went on a fairytale run to the NFC Championship game in 2024. They defied expectations and restored their reputation around the league. Peters did this through sound roster building that didn't jeopardize the team's long-term flexibility.

Peters is loaded with salary-cap space and draft picks to ensure this incredible start to his tenure becomes sustainable. There are several needs to fill and the Commanders also have 28 free agents to navigate. Those in power have a lot of hard work ahead, but going into the draft with the luxury of picking the best available option regardless of positional importance is an achievable objective.

James Pearce Jr. moves out of Commanders' reach with dazzling NFL Combine performance

Finding more explosivity on the edge is desirable. This is a deep class for pass rushers and defensive linemen. Considering how Peters wants to build through the draft and supplement any remaining needs in free agency, expect the front-office leader to take advantage of that fact.

James Pearce Jr. was nothing of sensational during on-field drills at Lucas Oil Stadium. The blazing top-end speed, fluid movements, and quick-twitch traits that became synonymous with his college production came to the fore throughout. He was comfortably the smoothest mover in the group, enhancing his stock considerably with an outstanding demonstration of athletic prowess.

Some mock drafts around the media had Pearce in play for the Commanders before the combine began. That won't be the case anymore.

It's easy to forget that Pearce was being talked about as a potential No. 1 overall pick before his final college campaign with the Tennessee Volunteers. A down year statistically and rumors of character concerns saw his stock slide, although there isn't much substance attached to the latter aside from an anonymous director of player personnel claiming as much to the media.

The Commanders having a chance to draft Pearce always seemed like a long shot. His talent dictates a pick in the top 15 at a minimum. This isn't the best draft class for top-end stars, especially at the quarterback position. This could see the edge threat go into the top 10 when it's all said and done.

Shemar Stewart and Nic Scourton are others who shone in Indianapolis. They could be more realistic options for the Commanders, but there's no telling if they'll be around when Peters goes on the clock.

Washington fans are more used to having a top pick and examining the blue-chip prospects at this time of year. The new regime changed that in an instant, but they can relax safe in the knowledge Peters has plenty of expertise at this stage of the draft after being part of winning front offices throughout his NFL journey.

It probably won't be Pearce. Even so, confidence is high that Peters can find the right talent with high character to help the Commanders thrive moving forward.

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