Ranking Commanders' nine biggest NFL Draft gems of the last decade
By Dean Jones
7. Cole Holcomb
- Linebacker | North Carolina Tar Heels
- No. 173 overall | 2019 NFL Draft
Cole Holcomb wasted no time in making a name for himself. The fierce linebacker didn't let his fifth-round draft status deter him from a highly impressive rookie campaign, going over 100 tackles and looking like someone who could potentially man the defensive second-level for the next decade.
Some injury issues followed as an NFL sophomore, but Holcomb came back with a bang with 142 tackles in 2021. Unfortunately, more health issues restricted the former North Carolina star to seven games and he walked in favor of the Pittsburgh Steelers in free agency.
Holcomb suffered a devastating leg injury after eight games of the 2023 campaign. Despite his luckless career, this was a definite draft gem acquired by the Commanders.
6. Chase Roullier
- Center | Wyoming Cowboys
- No. 199 overall | 2017 NFL Draft
There was a lot to like about Chase Roullier's production when he joined the Washington Commanders. An unheralded sixth-round selection, the determined center forced his way into the team's plans and when installed into the starting lineup as a rookie, didn't look out of place whatsoever.
This trend continued over the next few seasons. Roullier was a core component of Washington's offensive line, accomplished in all phases, and an exceptional pre-snap communicator for good measure. Unfortunately, his momentum was severely halted by injury issues and he became surplus to requirements in 2023.
After a visit with the Arizona Cardinals, Roullier retired after six seasons and 63 career starts. Had the player enjoyed some better luck on the health front, there's a good chance he'd still be starting for the Commanders.