5 draft moves from NFC East rivals in 2024 that should worry Commanders fans
By Seth Jones
The Washington Commanders had a stellar 2024 NFL Draft under general manager Adam Peters - one that should strike fear into their NFC East rivals. However, the classes from others within the division should not be taken lightly.
The NFC East as a whole got stronger as the Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles, and New York Giants all have elite draft classes coming in, too. Team needs were filled for these organizations, and it is going to make this tough division even more difficult to be competitive in. Something the Commanders haven't accomplished consistently for years.
Let’s take a look at some of these rival draft picks the Commanders should fear, starting with an edge rusher out of Western Michigan.
NFC East draft picks the Commanders should fear in 2024
Marshawn Kneeland
Marshawn Kneeland was a prospect that I was hoping the Washington Commanders might target to fill the edge rusher spot opposite Dorance Armstrong on the defensive line. Instead, the Dallas Cowboys took him just three picks after general manager Adam Peters' last second-round pick at No. 53 overall.
Kneeland seems to be Armstrong’s replacement in Dallas to retool an elite edge-rushing rotation of Micah Parsons, Dexter Lawrence, and their newly acquired rookie. Whether it'll be an upgrade or not remains to be seen, but the upside is there.
He is a high-motor player who brings extreme physicality to his game. Kneeland has a good frame and arm length that will allow him to create initial contact consistently. He generates pressure regularly, but he struggles with finishing off plays at times. That must improve throughout the offseason for the player to stand any chance of making his presence felt as a rookie.
Commanders fans know how subpar the offensive line has been as of late. If Kneeland hits the ground running, this does not bode well for games against Dallas this year.