4 recent Commanders draft picks with genuine breakout potential in 2024

K.J. Henry - Commanders DE

At the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine, K.J. Henry ran a 4.63-second 40-yard dash, had a 31.5-inch vertical, and a 9-foot-4 broad jump. These numbers are indicative of someone who could prove to be very good at the next level should they develop correctly under the right tutelage.

The problem was that when Henry was drafted, he immediately found himself surrounded by more proven players on the depth chart. After the Washington Commanders traded Montez Sweat and Chase Young, the former Clemson star was thrust into the limelight.

Henry went on to play 10 games for the Commanders during his rookie season, which included three starts down the stretch. He racked up 19 tackles, four tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, and two quarterback hits. Watching the games closely, one could see that he passed the eye test. He looked like someone who could become a definite part of the rotation.

The best showing of his rookie season came against the New York Giants when he tallied four tackles and 1.5 sacks. Henry finds himself competing with Dorance Armstrong, Dante Fowler Jr., and Clelin Ferrell for time on the field. He has not only been given the opportunity not show himself worthy of extended reps but has the chance to take the unit by storm with another offseason of development.