All the talk has centered on Adam Peters trading down in the 2025 NFL Draft to get more picks. That didn't stop one analyst from projecting a move up the order for a talented prospect who fell further down the pecking order than anticipated.
Peters' frantic activity in the trade market leaves the Commanders with just five draft selections currently. Maximizing these resources will be crucial, especially considering expectations are higher than ever after a memorable run to the NFC Championship game in 2024.
Most expect Peters to navigate a trade-down at some stage. The earlier that happens, the more chance he's got of stockpiling decent assets to enhance this exciting project. At the same time, the front-office leader was eager not to rule anything out, including moving up or potentially entering the trade market for another veteran if the right situation presented itself.
Commanders projected to trade up for Will Johnson in 2025 NFL mock draft
Chris Trapasso from CBS Sports went with more aggression from Peters in his latest mock draft. The analyst projected the Commanders to trade up to No. 24 overall after striking a deal with the Minnesota Vikings. Michigan cornerback Will Johnson was the preferred target.
"The [Minnesota] Vikings get their wish, and trade back with Washington for the [Washington] Commanders to get the high-upside [Will] Johnson, who's coming off an injury and a down 2024."Chris Trapasso
It would be surprising if Johnson was still around in the 20s. He's among the top cornerbacks in this class. The ex-Wolverine brings shutdown potential to the pros, and there would be a familiar face waiting for him in Washington if this scenario came to fruition.
Mike Sainristil and Johnson won a college football national championship together at Michigan. Continuing this partnership in Washington would further cement long-term hope within a cornerback unit that also consists of Marshon Lattimore, Jonathan Jones, and Noah Igbinoghene.
Cornerback might not be the biggest need for Washington right now. But make no mistake, Peters won't hesitate to take the best prospects available at any stage. It's something he did last spring when defensive tackle Johnny Newton fell into the Commanders' lap at No. 36 overall. Don't be surprised if the same happens again.
Johnson has the size, length, and explosiveness capable of making an impact from the moment he steps onto an NFL field. He's 6-foot-2 with 4.39-second speed in the 40-yard dash. His strength allows him to knock receivers off their routes in press coverage, which is matched by his ability to change direction quickly and break to the football when turnover opportunities arise.
There's also a lot to like about Johnson's physical approach, which is something Dan Quinn always looks for in his defensive backs. Some technical refinement is needed, but that should be easily fixable, looking at the player's immense athletic attributes.
This would be a surprising development. Johnson isn't expected to last too long during the draft, and the Commanders aren't exactly blessed with the assets required to take a move up.
However, that doesn't mean they won't if Johnson is there for the taking.