7 potential NFL Draft heists the Commanders can make in 2024

Commanders could draft Theo Johnson

• Tight End | Penn State Nittany Lions

Despite signing Zach Ertz to a one-year deal in free agency, the Washington Commanders could add another tight end into the mix during the 2024 NFL Draft. This is dependent on how Adam Peters views Cole Turner and Armani Rogers, but the chances of additional competition coming on board are high.

If the Commanders opted to hold fire on the position until Day 3, someone like Theo Johnson might be high on their list of possibilities. The Penn State prospect is one of the most athletic tight ends in this year's class. He's the definition of a rough diamond, but Washington has a much more accomplished coaching staff in place to nurture his obvious gifts.

Johnson is an outstanding blocker, which is a solid stepping stone from which to build. The sample size in the passing game was relatively limited, but he flashed soft hands for a man his size and was a supreme threat to generate yards after the catch to further add intrigue.

Another area where Johnson's game has developed is red-zone effectiveness. He's progressed his contested catch ability and knows how to manipulate body angles to his advantage. If the Commanders can develop his route tree and blocking technique, this could be Ertz's heir apparent with a smooth transition.

Commanders could draft Malik Washington

• Wide Receiver | Virginia Cavaliers

Given there was a distinct lack of urgency to bolster the wide receiver room after Curtis Samuel departed for the Buffalo Bills in free agency, it's a strong tell about how Adam Peters views this draft class. It's incredibly deep with quality options available across all seven rounds if the right prospects can be found. Expect the Washington Commanders to add a couple of genuine difference-makers who can develop long-term chemistry with their new rookie quarterback.

Even if the Commanders take one of the more highly-rated wideouts on Day 2, they could find legitimate value later on with someone like Malik Washington. He's not the biggest at 5-foot-9, but his playmaking capabilities are nothing short of electrifying.

To say Washington maximizes his transfer from Northwestern to Virginia would be an understatement. He was sensational for the Cavaliers, gaining 110 receptions for 1,426 receiving yards and nine touchdowns from 12 games. It won't be easy to replicate this production in the pros, but the wideout has X-factor qualities that warrant a look on Day 3.

Washington is a sharp route runner who's elusive enough to be a major threat after the catch. He's got enough to-end speed to impact proceedings downfield and can also assist as a kick returner while developing problem areas of his game.

Finding players that can get open and make things happen will be critical for the Commanders' new signal-caller. Washington ticks those boxes and more.