Commanders 7-round 2024 NFL mock draft: Post-combine questions edition

Commanders draft Kitan Oladapo

• Safety | Oregon State Beavers
• No. 181 overall

Much like the situation with cornerback Kendall Fuller, the Washington Commanders won't be placing the franchise tag on starting safety Kamren Curl. The surge in salary-cap space made it too expensive at $17 million, although a long-term extension is still being worked out with the former seventh-round selection.

Tying down Curl for his prime years would be desirable. He's worked his way up into an important part of Washington's defensive plans. The Commanders also got tremendous value throughout his rookie deal, so paying up if the money works for all parties would be the best possible solution.

That said, the Commanders should be examining contingency plans in place should Curl opt to take his chances elsewhere. Veteran safeties can be easily sought in this scenario. Adding a promising prospect at some stage during the 2024 NFL Draft is something else for Adam Peters to contemplate.

Kitan Oladapo emerged as the undisputed leader of Oregon State's defense quickly. He's got three years of superb college production under his belt. His traits are similar to Curl's in terms of demonstrating a willingness to come down and help in run support. This is an area of his production that excels consistently.

Some spatial awareness flaws must be addressed despite so many starts in college. That said, the Commanders aren't risking much at this stage of the draft to see what he can do within Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr.'s creative defensive alignments.