Commanders 7-round 2024 NFL mock draft: Final countdown edition

Commanders draft Khyree Jackson

• Cornerback | Oregon Ducks
• Round No. 3 | No. 100 overall

When I think of Dan Quinn-types at cornerback, I think of the tall, lengthy defensive backs that can provide a baseline consistent skill set in zone coverage or press-man. When watching Khyree Jackson, he came off the screen as the type of player the Washington Commanders head coach would draft at his position.

Jackson led the Oregon Ducks in passes defended and interceptions, using his 6-foot-4, 196-pound profile to high point and attack the football. He flashed some of these skills when he was originally at Alabama before transferring to Eugene. His jams at the line of scrimmage allowed the defensive back to be quite effective in press-man situations.

There will be inconsistencies in Jackson’s game such as the need to improve his route recognition in off-man and zone drops along with being more consistent with his eye discipline in these coverage disciplines. However, based on the current status of the Commanders' cornerback room, he could see playing time almost immediately with a smooth transition.

Commanders draft Tanner McLachlan

• Tight End | Arizona Wildcats
• Round No. 5 | No. 139 overall

Zach Ertz won’t be around for long as the Commanders starting tight end. It wouldn’t come as a surprise if this is his final season in the NFL. While he will be a steady veteran presence, Adam Peters must begin preparations for the future.

Thankfully, the Arizona Wildcats offer a talented seam threat that could go higher than where he is projected. Tanner McLachlan won’t be Rob Gronkowski 2.0. But with his basketball background, the sixth-year senior shows he can box out defenders and make plays at the catch point.

At 6-foot-5 and 244 pounds, McLachlan offers a quality frame and impressive athleticism that allows him to be a threat in run-after-catch situations. He isn’t an explosive athlete by any means. However, he has shown to be a reliable blocker in the run game.

This shows that former honorable mention All-Pac 12 tight end can play plenty of roles - whether it’s the F-move tight end, Y-slot, or in-line. McLachlan will need to add more polish as a route runner and blocker in both the run and pass. Playing behind a former Pro Bowler such as Ertz should help with his development at the next level.