Commanders could target Xavier Watts
- Safety | Notre Dame Fighting Irish
The Washington Commanders have a decent safety tandem to potentially build around long-term. However, this is entirely dependent on what the future holds for Jeremy Chinn beyond the campaign.
Chinn signed a one-year, prove-it deal in free agency after his career fizzled out with the Carolina Panthers. He turned down more money from the Pittsburgh Steelers to link up with head coach Dan Quinn. This was a smart decision looking at his performance levels overall in 2024.
The physicality, explosiveness, and playmaking ability fans became accustomed to seeing from Chinn over his early NFL journey came to the fore once again. There are some deficiencies in coverage, but it's been largely pleasing. Hopefully, the Commanders and the player's representatives can agree on an extension.
Finding another safety at some stage wouldn't be the worst idea in the world. The Commanders don't have much behind Chinn and Quan Martin, so another asset to the rotation would keep everyone fresh and give Joe Whitt Jr. more schematic flexibility.
Xavier Watts is someone to consider. The Notre Dame prospect is hard-hitting, assured in coverage, and can make things happen on the backend. He's improved his positional discipline throughout the season and his starring performance against the Georgia Bulldogs proved he can thrive in the biggest moments.
Watts has a second-round grade according to most analysts. That looks like decent value considering the scheme fit and mentality he would bring to Washington.
Commanders could target Josh Conerly Jr.
- Offensive Tackle | Oregon Ducks
The Commanders have shown signs of life on the offensive line this season. General manager Adam Peters won't settle in this critical area of the field in pursuit of giving rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels the protection needed to thrive.
There are some questions about the offensive tackle spots. Brandon Coleman seems capable of carving out a profitable career for himself after coping well with blindside responsibilities as a rookie. Andrew Wylie remains inconsistent and could be a salary-cap casualty if the Commanders feel like a better alternative can be found.
Cornelius Lucas is solid but isn't getting any younger. Trent Scott is a backup but nothing more. The Commanders should leave no stone unturned to keep momentum going in the right direction.
If the Commanders opt to go down the draft route for a long-term bookend alongside Coleman, Josh Conerly Jr. is someone who warrants consideration. The Oregon standout has the size, length, and athleticism that should transition smoothly to the pros. He mirrors oncoming edge rushers extremely well and boasts sound technical ability to further raise his stock.
Conerly is explosive to the contact point and has a mean streak that's hard not to love. His outstanding contribution despite the Ducks going down to defeat against Ohio State makes him a lock to be taken at some stage over the opening two rounds.