Commanders 3-round 2024 NFL mock draft: Smoke and mirrors edition

Commanders select Brandon Dorlus

• Defensive End | Oregon Ducks
• Round No. 3 | No. 78 overall

Dan Quinn is known for his terrific defenses and alignment versatility along the defensive line, especially during his time with the Seattle Seahawks and Dallas Cowboys. His team gave big money to Dorance Armstrong to be their No. 1 edge rusher while adding former top-five selection Clelin Ferrell for additional depth. This will help after the Washington Commanders traded Montez Sweat and Chase Young before the deadline.

There are some versatile defensive linemen in this draft class for the Commanders and a couple of Denico Autry-types at the edge rusher position. These include Missouri’s Darius Robinson, who is expected to go early in Round No. 2.

If a team chooses to pass on Robinson, they could get a similar alignment versatile defensive lineman in Oregon’s Brandon Dorlus.

From preliminary viewings, Dorlus offers a unique physical profile at 6-foot-3 and 283 pounds. His length and mass allow him to work from the 5-technique to a 1-technique in a potential NASCAR package. This is when all four down linemen are edge rushers.

Dorlus has enough explosiveness and power to be a disruptive presence from any alignment. While he can corner well enough, he doesn’t offer quality bend off the edge and must improve his ability to maintain proper leverage at the point of attack.