Grading every Commanders pick from the 2024 NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Commanders drafted Dominique Hampton
- Defensive Back | Washington Huskies
- No. 161 overall
Adam Peters did almost nothing to keep Kamren Curl and Kendall Fuller from departing in free agency. The Washington Commanders had some holes to fill within the secondary as a result. But after free agency and the 2024 NFL Draft, things look a little more promising.
The Commanders added another intriguing option to their depth chart by spending a fifth-round selection on Dominique Hampton, who has an NFL-ready physique and emerged into a valuable contributor on the Washington Huskies during their fairytale run to the college football national championship game.
Hampton isn't the most technically gifted, but Day 3 is all about finding the sort of athletic intangibles that could become something more with intense coaching. The defensive back fits the mold in that sense, with his versatility to operate anywhere across the secondary something else that could be in handy as part of the creative scheme being devised by Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr.
The prospect does a lot of his best work closer to the line of scrimmage. Hampton is a willing helper against the run and boasts enough closing speed to reach the point of attack in double-quick time. This could come in handy on special teams while the player refines his skill set as a rookie.
He's got the physicality needed to cope relatively well in coverage against tight ends, which is another string to Hampton's bow that could be of use. He'll also have the benefit of leaning on two renowned defensive back developers - Quinn and Whitt - who've developed a strong reputation for turning unheralded prospects into outstanding NFL performers.
Draft Grade: B
Expecting miracles from Hampton would be unrealistic. His angle recognition needs significant work and the player's tackling technique will also need a makeover. But from an athletic standpoint, there is plenty to encourage if he comes into the building willing to do whatever it takes to get better.