Nick Allegretti - Commanders OL
The Washington Commanders were tipped to take an offensive tackle with their first-round pick by many analysts. Most had Adam Peters selecting an edge rusher, cornerback, running back, or even moving back for more capital. The general manager had something else in mind.
When Josh Conerly Jr. fell further than Peters anticipated and into the Commanders' lap, the decision was simple. The Oregon graduate was the highest prospect on his board. It might not have been a priority, but taking the best available is always Washington's preferred option under the new regime.
This will involve more tinkering with the offensive line dynamic. The additions of Conerly and five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil will mean different roles for others. Most of the focus has been on the right-hand side, but Nick Allegretti should be nervously looking over his shoulder, too.
Allegretti started at left guard last season. He was moderately effective, but the Commanders could deploy Brandon Coleman as their long-term option alongside Tunsil on the interior once Sam Cosmi recovers from his torn ACL.
It might not be right away, but the table has been set for Allegretti's removal from the starting lineup. Just when that will happen is largely dependent on Cosmi's recovery.
Jeremy McNichols - Commanders RB
The Commanders kept faith with the running backs who contributed last season through free agency. Adam Peters resisted the urge for any veteran fresh faces, which led many fans to speculate whether this could be among his biggest priorities during the 2025 NFL Draft.
It was a deep group for running backs, so the opportunity was there to bolster the unit throughout. Peters waited until his final selection to accomplish this feat, selecting Jacory Croskey-Merritt at No. 245 overall.
This brings more intrigue than most seventh-rounders. Croskey-Merritt had his 2024 campaign cut short after the NCAA revoked his eligibility. That was a contentious issue, one that dented the player's draft stock considerably at the worst possible time.
Croskey-Merritt has a big chip on his shoulder. The Commanders are confident he can produce after spending considerable time with him throughout the team's pre-draft assessments. There's a growing sense around the media that Washington could have a steal on their hands.
Although Croskey-Merritt probably won't impact the starting tandem of Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler initially, that won't be the case for Jeremy McNichols. He's slotted as the No. 3 option currently after getting a one-year deal to extend his stay this offseason.
McNichols is a dependable veteran. But if Croskey-Merritt transitions smoothly, he could be on the outside looking in.