Commanders 7-round 2024 NFL mock draft: Free agency clues edition

What should the Washington Commanders do with their selections in the 2024 NFL Draft after the first few days of free agency?

NFL free agency is underway. The Washington Commanders have been one of the most active teams in the league. General manager Adam Peters entered the crucial recruitment period with the NFL's most available salary-cap space and has taken full advantage.

With new head coach Dan Quinn and his emphasis on having a strong defense, some of their biggest signings came on that side of the ball. The biggest contract the Commanders gave out was a three-year, $33 million deal to former Dallas Cowboys pass rusher Dorance Armstrong, who should boost their options after Chase Young and Montez Sweat departed.

Two other moves on defense that caught my eye were the additions of former Carolina Panthers cornerstones - linebacker Frankie Luvu and safety Jeremy Chinn. These are two players who will fit seamlessly on Quinn’s defense.

Other signings to note from the last couple of days include center Tyler Biadasz, offensive guard Nick Allegretti, running back Austin Ekeler, and former No. 2 overall pick quarterback Marcus Martiota. The one-time Philadelphia Eagles backup signal-caller could be a sign of the times for incumbent starter Sam Howell.

Hidden in the chaos of free agency is the start of pro days around the country. While the important ones are still a couple of weeks away, Commanders fans should begin marking their calendars for the respective events at USC, North Carolina, and LSU.

Free agency has reset some of the expectations for what the Commanders may do in Day 2 or later of the NFL Draft. Using the Pro Football Network simulator to dissect, here's how Peters may go with Washington's selections following a busy start to the league year in a special seven-round mock draft.