Commanders 7-round 2024 NFL mock draft: Pre-combine edition

Commanders draft Cam Hart

The Washington Commanders need more physicality at the cornerback position. Kendall Fuller's impressive production aside, almost everyone else failed to meet expectations. This was especially disappointing with Emmanuel Forbes - the first-round pick who found life difficult going up against elite-level wide receivers capable of punishing every mistake.

Fuller is a free agent and might not return, although the Commanders should work hard to ensure his stay is extended. Even so, Forbes' unreliability and Benjamin St-Juste's inability to take his game up a notch mean further additions to Joe Whitt Jr.'s secondary are expected.

Cam Hart is another gaining eye-catching momentum during the pre-draft assessment process so far. The Notre Dame prospect was one of the standout performers throughout Senior Bowl week, displaying sound coverage capabilities and also making an impact on running downs for good measure.

Hart's tape from his playing days with the Fighting Irish is mixed. There were times when he gave up deep plays thanks to a lack of awareness. Identifying route concepts more effectively would be another area of his game that needs refinement before embarking on prominent NFL reps.

That said, the athleticism for a man his size is off the charts. He's physical in run support, excels in getting wideouts off their routes in press coverage, and also has success operating in zone schemes to further boost his cause. Hart is a solid pick at this stage of the draft.