Commanders 7-round 2024 NFL mock draft: Bold approach edition

Commanders draft Caelen Carson

• Cornerback | Wake Forest Demon Deacons
• Round No. 3 | No. 80 overall

There is a definitive need at cornerback for the Washington Commanders. It would be surprising if those in power didn’t come away with one from their top 150 selections. There may not be elite talent at the top like in years past, but there is still plenty of depth with potential Day 1 contributors.

There are several potential options available at No. 80 overall that the Commanders could consider. One of those players is Wake Forest cornerback Caelen Carson, one of the most underrated defenders in the ACC during the 2023 campaign.

Throughout preliminary viewings of the former Demon Deacon, the 6-foot, 199-pound cornerback doesn’t have the size that Dan Quinn might look for in his defense. However, Carson does show functional athleticism and disruption at the catch point. He's also able to fight through contact in run support, which is another massive positive that won't go unnoticed by NFL teams during their respective assessments.

Carson has a great chance of getting substantial playing time considering the lack of depth in Wasington's cornerback room. With the roster continuing its rebuild throughout the next season or so, he has a chance to be a potential impact contributor for the Commanders with a smooth transition.

This is also a tremendous landing spot for any young defensive back considering Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr.'s previous development success with players such as Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland.