Commanders 7-round 2024 NFL mock draft: Making moves edition

Commanders draft Cooper DeJean

• Defensive Back | Iowa Hawkeyes
• Round No. 1 | No. 29 overall

The Washington Commanders need to find a young cornerstone piece for their defense. It doesn't matter if it's along the defensive line, the second level, or the secondary. If there is a prospect of a high caliber falling through the cracks in the backend of the first round, general manager Adam Peters should pounce on the opportunity.

Cooper DeJean began falling through that proverbial crack. This is the most versatile defensive back in the NFL Draft. He can start at perimeter cornerback, nickel, strong safety, or single-high safety at the next level. He is every bit as advertised and is well worth giving up additional capital for in this scenario.

The former All-American Hawkeye enters the league with terrific production, tallying seven interceptions and 13 passes defended in the last two campaigns. DeJean provides superb athleticism, terrific zone awareness, and a high football IQ that makes him as versatile as he is.

There are concerns about DeJean's true position in the secondary once drafted, though that shouldn't be a major complication for the Commanders with head coach Dan Quinn leading the charge. Whether it's at safety or cornerback, the former four-star high school recruit could be a game-changing piece in the secondary for years to come.