The Washington Commanders are currently sitting at 7-4 after two straight losses. This was disappointing, but the team is still way ahead of initial projections despite a downturn in their form of late.
Fans should keep the bigger picture in mind. It's Year 1 of this rebuild and there is still a lot of hard work ahead. There are still holes on the team that general manager Adam Peters and the front office must fill in the offseason.
According to Tankathon, the Commanders currently hold seven picks in the 2025 NFL Draft after trading a few to the New Orleans Saints in the Marshon Lattimore trade. That's still a decent number that could potentially increase further in the coming months.
Commanders select Josh Simmons in 2025 NFL mock draft
As the season is now halfway finished, more mock drafts are coming out from draft analysts. Ian Valentino of The 33rd Team had the Commanders picking offensive tackle Josh Simmons.
"2024 third-rounder Brandon Coleman might be the future for Washington at one tackle spot, but another tackle is still needed. Josh Simmons was excellent for the Buckeyes before tearing his ACL against Oregon. His athleticism and power are obvious, and he can start in Year 1 once he's healthy. "Ian Valentino, The 33rd Team
Even with the major improvements to the Commanders' offensive line, the right tackle position needs a long-term solution. Rookie Brandon Coleman seems to be the future piece at left tackle. Adding Simmons to the opposite side would be huge for Jayden Daniels and the offense.
Although he played left tackle at Ohio State, he should be able to slide over to the right tackle slot rather easily. The 6-foot-5, 310-pound stalwart has great size for an edge protector and has enough skills to become impactful in the pros.
He was projected by many to be the best offensive lineman in the class before tearing his ACL against Oregon. This will allow him to slide down draft boards. Even though this is a big injury, he should still be a very talented NFL player right away.
Simmons' size is the strength of his that seems to jump out the most. His explosiveness is even more impressive after you realize how big he is. A man this large should not be able to explode and be so technically sound.
This explosive nature by Simmons allows him to be an elite second-level run blocker. Linebackers and defensive backs are in for a rough day when they see him running toward them. Other needs will be considered, but strengthening the protection in front of Daniels will be high on the shortlist.