It's been a busy offseason for the Washington Commanders so far as they look to build on the exceptional foundations created during the 2024 campaign. With the main stage of free agency in the rearview mirror, there is one more major recruitment event to navigate before preparations for Dan Quinn's second season commence.
That, of course, is the 2025 NFL Draft. And one prospect provided a bullish outlook on how he could potentially impact the team's offense if given the chance.
The Commanders only have five selections currently. Adam Peters was incredibly active in the trade market after concluding that Washington was ready to win now with a rookie contract to build around. Cornerback Marshon Lattimore became the first bombshell acquisition. This was followed by wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. and left tackle Laremy Tunsil this offseason.
That's gone away slightly from Peters' initial desire to build through the draft and supplement any remaining needs from the veteran pool. However, the Commanders are ready to compete for honors sooner than anticipated. Pivoting accordingly was crucial.
Peters would like to get more picks. Trading back in the first or second round is a possibility depending on what offers come along. If the front-office leader can navigate his second draft as successfully as he did the first, the Commanders will be in prime position for another defining run in 2025.
Tahj Brooks was intrigued about adding his skills to Commanders' offense
One position Peters might be looking to upgrade is in the backfield alongside Jayden Daniels. Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler remain. Jeremy McNichols was re-signed and Chris Rodriguez Jr. got an exclusive rights tender. That shouldn't prevent the Commanders from adding another dynamic running back to provide an injection of energy.
Tahj Brooks believes he'd be a great fit within Washington's scheme if his comments on the Up and Adams Show with Kay Adams are any indication. The explosive dual-threat praised the scheme in place. He'd also like to keep the Texas Tech connection going with Kliff Kingsbury and Anthony Lynn on the staff.
"I would be [an asset]. I feel like it's a great offense, especially watching them this past [season] in the playoffs, just very explosive. And then, you know, just the Texas Tech tree. Kliff Kingsbury, Anthony Lynn, those guys. I haven't met them in person, but I know they're great guys and great coaches as well."Tahj Brooks
Tahj Brooks is intrigued by the Commanders due to their Texas Tech tree of Kliff Kingsbury and Anthony Lynn on staff. 👀@heykayadams | @just_tahj pic.twitter.com/w7mNvlxEKr
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) March 17, 2025
Brooks came of age over his final two college seasons, rushing for more than 1,500 yards both years to go along with 28 combined touchdowns. The former three-star high school recruit has a compact frame that allows him to absorb contact. He possesses outstanding vision and is decisive when exploiting gaps. There's also a lot to like about the prospect's willingness as a pass blocker, which is an overlooked yet extremely important part of playing the running back position.
Once Brooks improves his route tree, he's only going to get better. Not having elite top-end speed is going to hurt his stock after running a 4.52-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine, but the production in college warrants a discussion at the very least.
The Commanders will love Brooks' competitive fire and ability to rise to the big occasion. Whether that's enough for Peters to take the plunge is another matter.