Re-grading the Commanders 2024 NFL Draft class after one season

How did the Commanders' first rookie class under Adam Peters perform?
ByDean Jones|
Jayden Daniels
Jayden Daniels | Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
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Johnny Newton - Commanders DT

  • Round No. 2 | Pick No. 36

The Washington Commanders thought they'd struck gold when defensive lineman Johnny Newton fell out of the first round and into their laps at No. 36 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. He was projected by many to be a top-15 pick before injury problems surfaced. Luck was shining on general manager Adam Peters in no uncertain terms.

Newton had a difficult offseason. He missed most of the team's preparation program following foot surgeries. The Commanders were planning to bring him along gradually. That all changed when Jonathan Allen went down with a torn bicep in Week 6.

Washington needed more from Newton. The former Illinois standout stepped up with decent production alongside veteran lineman Daron Payne.

It wasn't perfect from Newton, but nobody expected it to be. The rookie displayed inconsistencies against the run and the tackling technique needs work. However, his explosiveness and ability to generate pressure from the interior were as advertised.

Grade: A

This season represents a solid foundation from which to build. Newton plans on spending plenty of time working out with Allen this offseason to hone his craft. He's avoiding complacency, which bodes well for his chances of making strides when team activities begin once again in 2025.

Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB

  • Round No. 1 | Pick No. 2

The Commanders believed in Jayden Daniels. They considered Drake Maye and others during their comprehensive pre-draft assessments, but the primary decision-makers quickly identified the Heisman Trophy winner as someone capable of spearheading this organization's renaissance.

Most thought Daniels would do well. Few expected him to reach the lofty heights accomplished during one of the finest seasons for any quarterback in NFL history.

Daniels was a revelation. His exceptional work ethic, fierce determination, and flawless demeanor quickly got everyone onside. No moment was too big for the signal-caller. The higher the stakes, the more he excelled.

Everyone believed the Commanders could win any game with Daniels leading the charge. His poise, precision, and electrifying dual-threat capabilities were astonishing. When Washington needed him to take over contests, he duly obliged.

The improvements were immediate. Washington went from a bottom feeder to a legitimate Super Bowl challenger in the blink of an eye. For all the other positives that helped them along the way, none were more important than having a franchise quarterback to depend upon.

Grade: A++

Taking Daniels was the best move general manager Adam Peters would ever make. He's provided the catalyst behind a seismic shift across the organization. And losing the NFC Championship game is only going to motivate him further moving forward.

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