Adam Peters doesn't have much to work with entering the 2025 NFL Draft. Some frantic trade activity during the offseason leaves the Washington Commanders with just five selections as things stand. That makes it imperative for the general manager to get every choice right.
One analyst believes the Commanders would be wise to avoid this potential first-round candidate given their diminished margin for error.
The Commanders made extending their free agents more important than almost anything else this offseason. Peters found room for two more bombshell trades to provide the offense with high-impact performers capable of assisting immediately. Defensive lineman Javon Kinlaw was the only major signing in free agency, with the front-office leader opting to acquire veterans on one-year deals in the hope of similar good fortune next time around.
There are still problem areas to fill before attention turns to Washington's preparations for the new campaign. Some are more glaring than others, but Dalton Wasserman from Pro Football Focus believes Bobby Wagner's re-signing should make linebacker less of a priority early in the process.
NFL Draft analyst believes Commanders should avoid LB Demetrius Knight Jr.
The analyst named Demetrius Knight Jr. as a prospect the Commanders should avoid. Wasserman didn't rule out Washington taking another development project further down the pecking order, but Peters has other priorities with their first-round pick at No. 29 overall.
"While the Commanders have several defensive uncertainties, their linebacker situation is more stable, with Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu leading the unit. That makes linebacker far less likely to be a first-round priority compared to edge rusher or cornerback. Washington could still look for a young linebacker to develop behind Wagner, but that’s more likely to come in the middle rounds rather than on Day 1."Dalton Wasserman
Nothing can be completely dismissed. Wagner performed at a high-level last season, but the perennial All-Pro doesn't have long left before retirement. The Commanders remain keen to see if Jordan Magee can develop after an injury-hit rookie campaign. However, it would be a surprise if another linebacker wasn't acquired between now and when Week 1 rolls around.
Knight is the right on the first-round border after an outstanding college career at South Carolina, Charlotte, and Georgia Tech. He's coped well with the increased competitiveness over his football journey, coming of age over the last two seasons to cement himself among the most gifted second-level prospects in this year's class. He's a talented player, but it doesn't seem likely he'll be in Washington all things considered.
The Commanders are running it back with Frankie Luvu and Wagner after both earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2024. Finding an explosive edge rusher or another productive cornerback could be a realistic possibility, although Peters would probably like to trade out of the first round entirely to acquire more assets.
Peters will have plans in place for every scenario. He's always eager to take the best players available regardless of need. That strategy worked well during his first draft, so going away from this successful formula this time around.
Fans have complete faith in Peters. Whether it's Knight or someone else remains to be seen.
Fortunately, there isn't too much longer to wait.
More Commanders news and analysis
manual