Commanders 7-round 2024 NFL mock draft: Adam Peters arrives edition
By Dean Jones
Commanders draft Elijah Jones
- Cornerback | Boston College Eagles
- No. 180 overall
The Washington Commanders caused a stir early in the 2023 NFL Draft by utilizing their first two selections on defensive backs. This did not come with an immediate change of fortunes as the secondary gave up big plays frequently.
Emmanuel Forbes' rookie campaign was a disaster. The jury is still out as to whether or not it was the right call to take him at No. 16 overall. After starting slowly, second-rounder Quan Martin came on down the stretch and looks to have a bright future ahead.
Benjamin St-Juste struggled. Kendall Fuller was easily the best cornerback, but he's out of contract and might take this opportunity to land on a team with a better chance of making a deep postseason run at this stage of his career.
If Fuller departs, this will become a bigger need for the Commanders. Especially if Forbes doesn't make the strides needed heading into Year 2 of his professional career. Either way, picking up a Day 3 development project that could assist with a smooth transition is something for Adam Peters to contemplate.
Elijah Jones has enough athletic intangibles to carve out a successful career for himself. He's not the quickest, but the young cornerback reacts well, anticipating route development and reading the quarterback's eyes effectively.
Bulking up a little will help Jones become a better tackler against more imposing figures at the next level. Nobody is expecting miracles right away, but the upside is obvious for the Boston College prospect in the right setup.