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

Commanders select Javon Solomon

• Defensive End | Troy Trojans
• Round No. 5 | No. 152 overall

I mentioned previously that the Washington Commanders could run a platoon of sorts at the defensive end opposite Dorance Armstrong. The defense needs extra juice, especially in their pass-rush rotation and NASCAR packages with all-defensive ends on the line. One player I’ve come to like as a Day 3 value pick is Troy pass rusher Javon Solomon.

The name might sound familiar to big college football fans. Solomon led the country last season in sacks while also leading the Trojans in forced fumbles and tackles-for-loss. Not only is he productive but he also offers some of the best bend and explosiveness in the draft.

His natural bend and leverage along with above-average length and hand size allow him to display glimpses of attacking the apex and bending the corner while offering speed-to-power via long-arm. Solomon will likely be limited to a rotational role at the next level due to his small frame for a defensive end and lack of sufficient play strength. He is the definition of a true third-down pass-rush specialist and would fit that bill in Washington quite well.

Commanders draft Fabian Lovett

• Defensive Line | Florida State Seminoles
• Round No. 7 | No. 222 overall

This portion of the draft is mostly saved for depth and developmental talent. The Commanders could use plenty of it to help their rebuilding process under Adam Peters.

The odds of a seventh-round selection becoming a gold mine of success are very rare unless you’re Brock Purdy. While the roster features two defensive cornerstones in interior linemen Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen, adding more depth doesn’t hurt anyone, nor does it for Washington.

Fabian Lovett was a key piece of the Florida State Seminoles' defense during the 2023 season. A team captain last season, he offers incredible power, an astounding wingspan of over 83 inches that will allow him to use long arms and hump moves to shave off blocks, and a strong anchor at the point of attack. 

This is not the most explosive player and he will sometimes come off the line late. However, Lovett can control what's in front of him and maintain gap integrity. This should give the Commanders depth, especially against the run, and a talent worth developing either on the 53-man roster or the 16-man practice squad.