7 best prospects remaining for Commanders after 2024 NFL Draft Day 1

Commanders could draft Adonai Mitchell

• Wide Receiver | Texas Longhorns

Jayden Daniels is the man tasked with finally providing the Washington Commanders with game-changing production under center. The quarterback's got enough to suggest he can reach these lofty expectations, but those in power must focus their attention on putting everything around their prized possession to hit the ground running.

The protection is a big part of that, although Daniels' mobility can mask some problems when the situation dictates. It would also be beneficial for the Heisman Trophy winner out of LSU if the Commanders got themselves another prolific weapon in the passing game.

Rumors are swirling about whether Adam Peters could reunite Daniels with his former college teammate Brandon Aiyuk via trade. Perhaps a more realistic route is someone like Adonai Mitchell, who dropped out of the first 32 selections in favor of Xavier Worthy and Xaver Legette late in the first round.

Mitchell is a playmaker. He knows how to create separation and manipulate opposing defensive backs. Some concentration issues pop up on occasion, but every cause for concern seems coachable and there is now strong value to be had where the Texas prospect is concerned.

Commanders could draft Patrick Paul

• Offensive Tackle | Houston Cougars

As previously mentioned, the Washington Commanders were unable to trade back into the first round for an offensive tackle. This might be something they come to regret, but Adam Peters was not going to overpay for a prospect unless he was 100 percent convinced.

Peters will have contingency plans in place. But it's something he must address early on Day 2 looking at the options on Washington's depth chart right now. Asking Cornelius Lucas or Trent Scott to fill blindside responsibilities is asking for trouble, although it's a legitimate possibility after the Commanders missed out on the top-tier prospects.

This brings Patrick Paul firmly into the equation. The Houston prospect and brother of Commanders interior lineman Chris Paul is an exceptional pass protector with a unique blend of size, length, and power. There are some technical flaws to work out and his run blocking leaves a lot to be desired at times, but the athletic intangibles suggest improvements can be made under the right coaching.

Asking Paul to start right away is a stretch. That said, becoming a Week 1 starter is a possibility if he brings on problem areas of his game quickly throughout the preparation period.